I've been launching alone even when I have my wife and the kids with me. I have a mental checklist, and after a few years of doing it this way, it's second nature.
Our ramp isn't terribly busy, however, you still want to get down and off asap. Before backing down, I'll take care of the basics:
Drain plug in...
Transom straps removed...
Key in ignition (not turned on)...
I back down, as someone mentioned previously, until the fenders are just below the water, and then:
Start the blower...
Lower the stern drive...
Start the engine - leave in idle... (this is a good idea, just to make sure you don't have ignition or battery problems prior to launching)...
Hang over the bow, and detach the safety chain, and the winch hook...
Power off the trailer... power over to a courtesy dock and tie up... engine off...
Run back to the truck, and park...
Seems to work for me...
Our ramp isn't terribly busy, however, you still want to get down and off asap. Before backing down, I'll take care of the basics:
Drain plug in...
Transom straps removed...
Key in ignition (not turned on)...
I back down, as someone mentioned previously, until the fenders are just below the water, and then:
Start the blower...
Lower the stern drive...
Start the engine - leave in idle... (this is a good idea, just to make sure you don't have ignition or battery problems prior to launching)...
Hang over the bow, and detach the safety chain, and the winch hook...
Power off the trailer... power over to a courtesy dock and tie up... engine off...
Run back to the truck, and park...
Seems to work for me...