I’ve had a front-end hitch on my old Toyota Tacoma for years and love the ability to not only launch in that direction but also—even more often—move trailers around the house or boatshop, sticking the landing in tight spaces (like between all the other boat trailers)!
Just be sure to latch the trailer to the ball. Anytime the trailer is being pushed either backing or like this example the consequences of an unexpected unhitching can be very damaging or deadly
I don't have a front hitch but after the ball is seated and latched, I ALWAYS crank up the trailer jack to verify the hitch is locked, then I swing the jack up and stowed.
This is a great idea, looking forward while maneuvering a trailer is much easier and safer. Although it's probably more than strong enough, I'd probably add a small dyneema 'leash' between the car frame and trailer tongue, just in case it were to come uncoupled.
I like it. It opens up the possibilities. What I like best is that you use it as a workaround for a physical issue. You haven't let life's circumstances stop you. Then you shared it so others could benefit. It's all very Resourceful Sailory of you. Thanks.
I move my 12.5 Norseboat all the time with a front hitch on a John Deere Gator. It is remarkably easy to around our property. I never thought about launching it. Interesting idea. Sure would be easier on the neck.
This is a really good idea, I think. I wish I'd thought of it when I was still driving my Eurovan. It also had a tow ring in the front. I just looked at my new Ford Maverick truck and there isn't any obvious way to attach any hitch to the front end. Too bad.... my backing ability is not fully developed and time is running out! (Ageing, you know.)
I’ve had a front-end hitch on my old Toyota Tacoma for years and love the ability to not only launch in that direction but also—even more often—move trailers around the house or boatshop, sticking the landing in tight spaces (like between all the other boat trailers)!
Just be sure to latch the trailer to the ball. Anytime the trailer is being pushed either backing or like this example the consequences of an unexpected unhitching can be very damaging or deadly
I don't have a front hitch but after the ball is seated and latched, I ALWAYS crank up the trailer jack to verify the hitch is locked, then I swing the jack up and stowed.
This is a great idea, looking forward while maneuvering a trailer is much easier and safer. Although it's probably more than strong enough, I'd probably add a small dyneema 'leash' between the car frame and trailer tongue, just in case it were to come uncoupled.
Great idea. I use the front receiver hitch on my Jeep all the time.
I like it. It opens up the possibilities. What I like best is that you use it as a workaround for a physical issue. You haven't let life's circumstances stop you. Then you shared it so others could benefit. It's all very Resourceful Sailory of you. Thanks.
For backing down a trailer, this guy had the best technique that is very easy to use. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWh6_HKcJJg
My grandfather used this technique with his 13’ Boston Whaler and it has always made a lot of sense to me though I rarely see it used at boat ramps.
His favorite fishing spots often had muddy dirt ramps and he never got stuck in his 2wd pickup using this technique.
With the outboard on it, the whaler balanced beautifully on the trailer and switching between front and rear hitches was a one handed affair.
Man, I miss him.
I move my 12.5 Norseboat all the time with a front hitch on a John Deere Gator. It is remarkably easy to around our property. I never thought about launching it. Interesting idea. Sure would be easier on the neck.
This is a really good idea, I think. I wish I'd thought of it when I was still driving my Eurovan. It also had a tow ring in the front. I just looked at my new Ford Maverick truck and there isn't any obvious way to attach any hitch to the front end. Too bad.... my backing ability is not fully developed and time is running out! (Ageing, you know.)
Your maverick might have a towring attachment too, I would check to see if you have something fabricated up too.