Tips for Towing a Small "Skiff"?

[AJCFLA68]

I've got a 4 door Wrangler Sport that has a max tow of 3500 so I'm only looking at boats/trailers that are well below that since I need to consider fuel, gear, etc. I'm hoping to pull the trigger on a 16ft Rabco Buccaneer "Skiff" that has a dry weight of about 500 lbs, the Suzuki 60HP weighs in at approx 250 and the trailer approx 800 lbs...not sure on exact trailer model that comes with the boat. My calculations put me well under 2000 lbs so weight should not be an issue, I think.....I'm just looking for advice from those that pull boats and how they drive (standard, 4 Hi, 4 low, etc.) and if I need to add anything to the Jeep for a safer ride. I have never pulled anything so just trying to make sure I get everything right, before I get the boat in 4-6 weeks or sooner. Also, since I'm asking, anyone have experience with Rabco boats out of Clearwater, FL? I'm getting a sweet deal on a new build but I was hoping for something "17" and above, but this one checks all the boxes, well almost all.

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[philbar715]

You'll have zero problems with that size boat. There's a few of us that tow well over the limit with no issues.

Unless your ramp is really slick or you are launching from sand/dirt there's no need for 4wd. If you need 4wd to get out of the ramp you might not be able to stop on the way down if it's that slick. But with something that light you'll be fine.

Learn in an empty parking lot how to backup and how to turn wide. Take it slow and you'll be great!

https://www.jlwranglerforums.com/forum/threads/gratuitous-towing-pics.112677/#post-2341307

 

[AJCFLA68]

Nice boat. Thanks for the tips.

 

[Bayrat]

I'm surprised that the Rabalo skiff is so light. You will sail right along towing that. I towed an 18' Boston Whaler with a 100 horse Merc with my YJ.

 

[Pinion]

I'm surprised that the Rabalo skiff is so light. You will sail right along towing that. I towed an 18' Boston Whaler with a 100 horse Merc with my YJ.

Yeah, Whalers are heavier built and full of foam. Most boats are hollow.

 

[C.Sco]

You wont have any problems and don't need to do anything special, but whenever towing I always recommend having your Offroad Pages open to keep an eye on your oil, coolant, and trans temps

 

[AJCFLA68]

So I just placed the deposit for the new build....6-8 weeks of waiting starts now!!! Got a question on trailer wiring. I added the Quadratec hitch, but now need the wiring. I may actually pay to get it done to ensure it's done properly. I know it's fairly simple, but rather get it done....The wiring that typically comes for the Wranglers are 4 pin and not sure what a boat trailer has (4 or 7). I've read if I go with the 4 pin certain things won't work, just the lights, which I guess is all I need it for, but don't want to leave any features out if might need later. I know I can add an adapter from 4 pin to 7; does that take care of any issues? Thanks

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