Probably a dumb question but I just want to make sure. I'm going to be towing (two seadoos) for the first time in my Runner. It's a 93 automatic, I just wanted to see if there is anything I need to know before towing. Like using O/D (it's always on now), and ECT (still not real sure what thats for) or just towing tips in general. It should only be about a 65 mile trip. Thanks!

 

you'll be fine. make sure the bearings on the trailer wheels are well lube and the lights works back there.
Practice backing up with it in a parking lot. It's goes the opposite of your steering.
Grease the hitch ball before mounting the trailer.

The ECT button delay the shift point so you stay in the gear longer. you might only need it on the hills.

 

Great, thanks for the info!

 

In addition to what Anthony said, give yourself more braking room, the weight of even a light trailer will try and push you a little. Use the ECT power button, and just see how it goes with overdrive. If it shifts out of overdrive frequently, then just leave it off.

 

Since this is your first time towing. Remember:
1) It will take longer to stop so give yourself room
2) remember the trailer is wider than your 4Runner, so take wide turns.
3) Get the right size ball drop so the trailer will be even.
4) Check your tranny and make sure it is not overfilled/underfilled
5) Don't speed, those small trailers like to fish-tail when going over 55 mph!

 

Waverrunner trailers are short and kinda tricky to back up. Like anthony1 said practice befor you get to the lake and try and launch them, it will be a big help. The longer a trailer is the easier they are to back up. That sounds backwards but its true.

have fun and be safe

 

Best way that I ever saw a diagram for noobs backing a trailer is to put your hand on the bottom of the steering wheel. Whichever way you move your hand/arm with the steering wheel gripped, left or right, that's the way the trailer will begin to point. So if you move your hand to the left, you will actually be cutting your wheels right, and the trailer will begin kicking out to your left. Kinda odd, but if you get flustered, just remember that. And as others have said, backing a short trailer is indeed tricky, especially with a short wheelbase vehicle. So go slow while backing so you can make adjustments before its too late and you have to pull forward. Main thing to avoid is the ever present jack-knife situation.

As far as weight goes... I think you'll be fine, seadoo's are pretty light as are their trailers.

 

I'm just hauling them home for someone else so he doesn't have to make two trips so I won't have to be one of those noobs backing it down the boat ramp. I have backed a boat trailer though and didn't have too many problems doing that.

Thanks for all the tips guys. I appreciate 'em!