Every one of your questions is answered many times here if you do a search Triton. Like mentioned, one day out on the water with someone who is experienced, will get you years ahead of the learning curve trying to do it on your own. There are so many little things we do forget to mention quite a few, but seeing them in action, and applying them right then makes a big difference. I have taken many out who read how to do it and tried and spent time without going with someone first and found the way they read it compared to how we do it picked up most of the tips/tricks in one outing and just need to fine tune on their boats. Just a bit of info.