Loading 2007 Challenger 180

[mjbflyer140]

Recently purchased a 2007 Challenger 180 and I'm having loading issues.
It came with the stock trailer and I pull the boat with a F150. When I load it with the bunks barely sticking out of the water or just submerged, the bow is significantly under the front roller. To get it close to the correct position, I have to go much deeper and the back of the boat floats and sometimes is off centered when I pull out. Any suggestions? Thanks.

 

[Coastiejoe]

Go shallower than you are presently and GENTLY power up the bunks.

You need the bow to ride up enough of the bunks back to about half way of the bunks/boat. This will get the bow higher and the stern lower, which will put the roller closer to where it needs to be. If you are in a high gravel area, you may want to winch it up. I have powered up the bunks with everything I have ever owned. Skis, 27 foot Searay, and Jet Boats...


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[X-Runner]

If its off center when you pull out just back it down until it floats a bit. It will self center and you can pull it out. Of course this depends on if the boat is loaded with gear on board off to one side or the other. But it does sound like you are going too deep.

 

[timeman]

Agree if your bow is beneath the roller your trailer is in too deep. A lot depends on the angle of the ramp. In my area, I back my trailer in with about 12+ inches of bunk showing, slowly drive in until the hull cradles and boat comes to complete stop, turn the wheel slightly L or R to center the boat on the bunks,(easy to feel it seat while you're sitting still) then power up and drive up the bunks. My ramp is concrete so there aren't rocks to suck up, a couple blasts of power and the bow moves right up on the roller, little or no winching. (not a bad idea to back your trailer in enough to wet the carpeting, then pull forward until you have the proper amount of bunk showing. I've seen guys pull the carpeting off from too much friction) Like everything, PRACTICE! Happy Boating!