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Spring 2024
page 26
Whenever I travel, I also bring at least one extra set of bearings, races and seal castle nuts, cotter pins, etc.
I’m also to the point – where I’m considering just buying an extra hub assembly and perhaps even replacement brake line/fittings.
A bag of rags and a packet of hand cleaners are also great to have on hand to help you get everything cleaned up. Other miscellaneous items to consider- a can of fix a flat, headlamp or light, some ratchet straps, bailing wire and zip ties.
Of course, some of this is overkill if you have a two-mile trek to the lake, but if you are heading out of town to fish, I think is imperative. I have a tote and couple of Milwaukee boxes to keep everything organized that I can just throw in the truck when I hit the road so that I have the peace of mind that I should have most everything I need. I also have Decked tool boxes in my truck – which are fantastic for secure storage and organization.
YOUTUBE
Not everyone is mechanically inclined, but I would encourage everyone to become familiar with your trailer, brakes and bearings. There are so many sources available today to watch online probably even specific to your trailer or components, that you can have at a minimum a basic knowledge of how to make repairs and get you on down the road.
INSURANCE
Lastly, know your insurance coverage and if you have a towing service have the information on hand. I had a brake caliper seize several years back coming back from Lake Almanor and I didn’t really know coming down the hill. The
heat caused a bit of damage and even getting the hub off the spindle would never have happened on the road.
So, knowing your insurance coverage and having that information on hand to get your boat home safely at the end of the day is invaluable. Also, being able to help your fishing buddies solve issues on the road helps everyone spend more time on the water. •