I have a 95' Volvo 850 Turbo. I recently got my hands on a single jet ski and trailer. I've read around and feel pretty confident about towing my jet ski, however I'm wondering anyone has any experience with launching and retrieving a jet ski with an 850? Is this a bad idea? Any input would be awesome. Thanks, Paul.

 

Hi Paul, welcome to VolvoForums.

When launching a boat I feel that FWD vehicles have an advantage being the drive wheels are away from the water. You back, the craft/trailer into the water, slide it off the trailer, then pull the car away with the trailer. With the motor over the drive wheels you have less risk in loosing traction.

 

I used to tow a jet ski with an Acura Integra...so it can definitely be done with an 850. You just have to watch out for the kind of ramp you're on...you don't want the car halfway underwater, and you Don't want any traction issues getting back up the ramp. The longer your trailer tongue, the better off you will be - it'll be easier to launch and easier to back.

 

Thanks! Ha, seems you have found me on another forum.


Yeah traction issues coming up the ramp would be a terrible situation. I do have FWD with traction control do you think that would help with slicker ramps? My trailer tongue isn't very long. It's average length. I'm just going to have to avoid steep ramps with low water level.

 

Ramps should not be slippery.

 

you dont want a ramp thats overly gradual though either...you get one of those and your jet ski is still sitting on the trailer while your back wheels are half way under he water.

And what rspi said ha an element of truth to it - most ramps are poured concrete that i grooved to allow for water runoff and to give you better traction.

 

Most of the ramps around Oregon usually are paved with the type of grooves you're talking about. This Sunday will be the ultimate test. Hopefully everything will go smoothly. From all the advice given, I should be fine.