Launching a PWC

Before you can enjoy your personal , you’ll need to get it out on the water. If you’re a newbie, the process of launching a PWC can be overwhelming. But don’t fret – Family Powersports San Angelo is here to help. We’ve created the following guide to cover everything you need to know. If you still have questions, you can always stop by our dealership. We proudly serve those in Abilene, Big Spring, and Sonora, Texas.

Prepare Your Trailer

Your trailer is a crucial part of this process, so you’ll want to make sure it’s free of any issues. Check that the tires are inflated to the right air pressure and any brake and power hook-ups work.

Load your personal watercraft onto the trailer, secure it, then cross your tow chains beneath the tongue of the trailer. If your trailer gets disconnected, this step will keep the tongue from hitting the highway.

One trick is to change your license plate on your trailer. When you back into the water, it’s easy for the license plate to become damaged from hitting something (such as a bump on the ramp). If you replace the bolts holding your license plate with zip ties, your license plate will be able to swing freely if it hits something. This helps reduce the chance of bending or damaging it.

Prepare at the Dock Area

When you arrive at the dock area, you’ll want to pull over and spend a few minutes setting yourself up for success. Put on your lifejacket and sunscreen. If you need one, attach a tow rope to your personal watercraft. Then attach the engine kill switch to your wrist and insert your PWC’s drain plug. You’ll want to make sure your PWC floats when the trailer goes into the water, so loosen the winch straps and safety chains now.

Release Your PWC

Next, you’ll want to fully undo the winch straps and safety chains on your personal watercraft. Turn on the engine to check that it turns over (and ensure it won’t stall on the ramp). Then jump in line for the ramp!

When it’s your turn, back your trailer into the water slowly. Once you reach the water’s edge with your trailer somewhat submerged, park your vehicle. Then pull your PWC by hand into the water. At this stage, you’ll need to move and park your car. If you are alone, connect your personal watercraft to a post and move your vehicle. If you have help, the other person can park your car and trailer. Either way, you’ll want to get your car and trailer out of the area so you can focus on your PWC.

Leaving the Dock

It’s important that you avoid starting your personal watercraft in shallow water since this can result in the intake sucking up rocks and debris. This can ruin your ride (or worse, lead to expensive repairs). Wait until you are three feet deep before starting your PWC. Be aware of others on the water as you navigate away. Once you reach open waters, you can start up your machine and let the fun begin!

We hope you found this guide helpful! For all your personal watercraft needs, visit Family Powersports San Angelo. Our friendly staff is happy to give you more tips on launching a PWC or answer any questions you may have. If you are looking to buy, check out our wide range of inventory for all types of adventure seekers as well as for all budgets. We proudly serve those in Abilene, Big Spring, and Sonora, Texas. Stop by today!