a few questions

[Golden Ghost]

1.   I'm just wondering what my trailer weights for a possible new car purchase. I know my Jon boat and motor but not my trailer. It caries my 1648 Lowe Jon boat and has a few feet in front of the winch. Galvanized.
2.   I take my boat on St Clair on very calm days. No more that a mile off shore. Being a Jon boat and not having a false floor there is no bilge pump. I'm I asking for problems without one? If I should have on then how should I mount it?
3.   I have an electric start motor. Do most guys carry jumper cables on board in case you need a jump? Thanks.

[Genie]

Do you have 2 batteries?  If so, then yes on the cables. Take your rig to a scrap yard or place that has dirt or stone by the load and get it all weighed. Since you know the boat and motor, do the math. Bilge, since you can see the floor, a bucket will do. False floors where you can't see water is a need for a bilge.

[mikesmiph]

Also, any Pilot or other major truck stop will have a scale. If you can lift the boat off and only weigh the trailer, then you will know exactly. Might cost you a couple bucks.

[djkimmel]

If your boat is over 16 feet long, make sure you meet all the additional state and federal safety requirements for taking your boat on the Great Lakes. I recommend everyone follow them regardless because fishing should be fun without unnecessary risk.

I recommend a couple large scoops (homemade works) and/or other methods for getting water out of your boat. It's a good area to have a backup in, or a second device for a helper.