1995 TXT Boat launching modifications recommended?

[Picklewagon]

I’m not new to engines or mechanics, but new to Carts. I’m hoping to get some recommendations on any upgrades y’all would do to launch a boat. I launch my 17’ aluminum boat at a resort with a not so steep dirt ramp. My cart is a twin cylinder (don’t know the motor size) with a 2”receiver. The cart is in really good shape and is lifted with big tires. The lift is NOT IFS but I may go that route one day. I’ve pulled the boat around on the flat with the cart, just to test it will pull it and the brakes will stop it with no huge issues.

I’m thinking heavy leaf springs and a heavy duty belt, possibly an upgraded clutch and brakes? I’m kind of worried I’ll get dragged in the lake on the ramp, so I’m taking all the precautions I can.

The reason I want to attempt this, is my tow vehicle is really long, there isn’t much room to turn the truck and boat around to back down to the water, it takes about 15 moves to line up to the launch. I’m thinking it would make it simple to use the cart.

Thanks for any info.

[cart around]

I think the most important thing would be a good aggressive knobby tread for traction, and don't back in deep enough to get the belt wet.

I pull a heavy firewood trailer with a 2 stroke. I'm always surprised at how much it will pull.

[1arunem]

Make sure the brakes are up to the task and not too much tongue weight for the ramp angle.

[Picklewagon]

Originally Posted by cart around

I think the most important thing would be a good aggressive knobby tread for traction, and don't back in deep enough to get the belt wet.

I pull a heavy firewood trailer with a 2 stroke. I'm always surprised at how much it will pull.

Thanks for that. The trailer is pretty well balanced, it’s a single axle and I can pick up the tongue pretty easily.

[Picklewagon]

Originally Posted by cart around

I think the most important thing would be a good aggressive knobby tread for traction, and don't back in deep enough to get the belt wet.

I pull a heavy firewood trailer with a 2 stroke. I'm always surprised at how much it will pull.

Thanks for that. The trailer is pretty well balanced, it’s a single axle and I can pick up the tongue pretty easily. The tires on there are more aggressive than I’d ever need I think.

[Dabble Inn]

I use to launch my jet ski's with my stock 85 2 stroke on a cement ramp no problem, I did get a lot of BIG eyes from everyone when I did it though LOL......

Like CA said above, don't back in far enough to get the belt wet, I made that mistake once while launching a friends jet ski's with a shorter trailer. Had to get pulled out LOL....

To be on the safe side;
The first time you try it you might want to have a tow strap tied to a truck or 4 wheeler just in case it wants to pull you in, Good Luck

[Mooncarter]

I would have somebody on standby with some chocks the first time in case something goes wrong.

Is that a Jon Boat or is it more of a Bass Boat? Weight of 17 foot boats can vary greatly.

[slonomo]

If your rear tires are large and they get submerged they will start to float and you will loose traction. Good luck at that point, it might be too late. My recommendation is to have a good bit of weight in the back of the cart to hold it down and to not get the tires in water past halfway. Good luck.