How to tow a jet ski trailer: hitch, weight and ramp tips

Every Jet Action rental includes a trailer, so the one thing you bring is the tow vehicle. Here is exactly what it needs and how to handle the ramp.

What your vehicle needs

• 2 inch trailer ball.
• Flat 4 light connector. If your vehicle does not have one, adapters and wire kits are available at most auto parts stores or U-Haul.
• A hitch. A class II to class IV receiver is preferred. Bumper style hitches work fine.
• Tongue height of 14 to 24 inches from the ground to the ball.

Know the numbers

• Double trailer with two fueled skis: about 2,500 lbs, 8.5 ft wide, 15 ft long.
• Single trailer: about 1,400 lbs, 5.8 ft wide, 16.5 ft long.
• Tongue weight: about 200 lbs.

Most SUVs and pickups handle this easily. Check your owner's manual for towing capacity if you are in a smaller crossover.

On the road

Leave extra following distance, swing wide on right turns, and take the canyon roads to Saguaro and Canyon Lake slowly. Check that the lights work before you leave the lot. We will check them with you.

At the ramp

1. Prep in the staging area, not on the ramp. Load your gear, put on life jackets, and take off the tie-down straps.
2. Back down slowly with one hand at the bottom of the wheel. Move your hand the way you want the trailer to go.
3. Stop when the skis start to float. Have one person drive the ski off while the other parks.
4. Coming out, line the trailer up straight, drive the ski on slowly, then strap it before you pull up.

Nervous about backing? Practice in the shop lot when you pick up. We are happy to help.