George and Penny
My folks have either a 28' or 32' Class A that they tow and launch several different boats with, both single axle and dual axle. So far they have not had any problems and from their comments the two most important reasons are: A) They work very well as a team in that they have split up the duties (backing up, attaching lines and fenders, etc) and they do not switch those duties. That way each person knows what they must do and get it done. B) Like Fishtales, they installed an aftermarket camera on the back of the motorhome (it did not come with one when they bought it). I have not used the motorhome to launch, but I have driven it several times and the camera really makes a difference!
They probably launch and retrieve at least once a week so as the saying goes, practice makes perfect. Because of their teamwork, they are usually the fastest ones in and out. Both they and the Park Rangers at the different lakes they frequent love it when the younger guys offer to help these 'poor old folks' launch or retrieve and then find out that these 'old folks' can do it on their own faster than anyone else.
One of the things I have learned from them is to practice launching your new boat on a weekday when there is little other traffic or audience around you. You can take your time then and figure out what works and what does not. If you have a partner, work out what needs to be done by whom before hand. Your partner may just be better at backing up than you are. If so, let them do it! With a motorhome, radios really do help but patience, humor and a positive attitude will make your partner much more willing to help. I cringe everytime I witness a normally nice guy (or lady) turn into a little screaming Hitler just because he's in a hurry and his partner is not doing things they way he wants. That is a great way to insure that you go boating by yourself from that point forward!
Another "Best Practice" when launching for the first time or when launching at a new ramp is to first watch others launch. Although you will learn from the ones that do it well, you'll probably learn more from the ones that do it poorly. Grab yourself a mug of good coffee and go down to that long and narrow community ramp early on a Saturday morning without your boat. Spend an hour sipping and learning. I'm amazed we don't see any launch clips on "America's Funniest Videos", I've seen more gut busting comedic acts watching people trying to show off their launching skills then any other activity that I can think of. Usually someone is trying to rush things and forgets a critical step, like putting the vehicle in park. 2nd Bite Mark's practice of putting chocks behind the wheels is one of those great ideas you see the smart ones use. I watched someone leave their vehicle in neutral and their truck went completely under water, at least the boat floated free.
Last but not least, be prepared for the questions from other people at the ramp regarding your C-Dory. These boats seem to get more than their fair share of attention. Half of the times I go out, someone wants to know more about the boat. Frequently this includes a tour of the insides and a five minute question and answer session. Remember, these boats are tough, so don't worry too much about putting your first scratch in her, she'll survive. Just look at Catman's boat, he goes out all the time and his boat looks brand new!
Look forward to seeing your photos!
"Chivita" Dave