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Chris
Dodge Dakota
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10/26/2003
23:47:28
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 Subject: Boat Launching
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Message:
Okay, I know a lot of you are looking to get the utmost performance out of your Dakotas, but I have a boat towing question that I hope someone can answer.
I have a 2001 Dak with the 4.7L, 5 spd stick and factory towing option and the 3.55 gears. I just bought a 23" SeaRay boat, that weighs 4500 with trailer and full fresh water and gas tanks. My Dak weighs 5600 with me and the GF.
Except for having to give the engine a little more gas when starting from a stand still, I barely notice that the boat is behind me; the Dak tows it very well. There is also no concern with braking ... the trailer does have surge brakes, but I notice no difference in the Dak.
My question concerns launching the boat. The boat ramps in my town are rather steep because all of the lakes are resevoirs. My neighbor has twice expressed concern that the boat will pull my Dak down the ramp. With the Dak in low 4x4, I cannot imagine this, but I do not want to take the chance. Has anyone here launched a similar size/weight boat with their Dak?
Thanks!
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kicker01
Dodge Dakota
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10/27/2003
08:55:31
|  RE: Boat Launching
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Message:
My previous truck was a 98' Dakota CC 5.2 4x4 auto and I used to tow my 21' Sport Nautque Ski boat all the time. I had no problems launching it on several different types of ramps. The only concern for you to keep in mind is that always have someone in the truck while launching the boat into the water. Ive watched many unfortunate accidents that could have been avoided by having someone in the drivers seat of the truck ready incase the truck starts sliding down the ramp. You should be fine considering you have 4WD.
Steve
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Hemi
Dodge Dakota
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10/27/2003
09:02:40
| RE: Boat Launching
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Message:
You will have no problem launching the boat. I used to launch my 19ft boat with a 4.7 4x2 QC Dakota with no problem. If you have 4x4 you will really have no problem whatsoever
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Kowalski
Dodge Dakota
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10/27/2003
16:58:48
| RE: Boat Launching
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Message:
I agree, no problems launching my 19' cuddy cabin. A bit lighter than yours, but when a boat hits the water it wants to float, so that weight doesn't keep pulling you back. I prefer steep launches - your truck doesn't have to go as far into the water, less chance of water getting into the rear end.
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00 daokta 4x4
Dodge Dakota
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10/27/2003
18:18:35
| RE: Boat Launching
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Message:
I have a 2000 4x4 4.7 and have towed everthing imaginable. I have also towed a 26 foot cuddy cabin and launched it succesfully. Mind you the boat ramp was pretty steep and leaving the truck in 4 high got the job done. In other words you wil not have a problem.
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Chris
Dodge Dakota
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10/27/2003
19:26:55
|  RE: Boat Launching
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Message:
Thanks everyone, I really appreciate the input... especially you 00 Daokta since your boat is most similar to mine. I am looking forward to next spring!!!
Speaking of springs, has anyone tried the Road Master Active Suspension setup? I was thinking of buy one so that my rear end does not drop so much when I connect the trailer
Thanks again!
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Kowalski
Dodge Dakota
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10/28/2003
15:51:37
| RE: Boat Launching
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Message:
I've had it on my truck for a couple of years - works very well. Helps beef up the springs without feeling as stiff as adding extra leaf springs.
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cory
Dodge Dakota
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10/28/2003
23:18:42
| RE: Boat Launching
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Message:
teach the old lady to help it makes life a lot easier. I tow a 19ft glastron with a exploder just make sure you can get traction thats the only advice i have. Putting the boat in is easy taking it out is the fun part. but with a 4.7 you should have no problems with good tires.
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