Installing swim step/ladder

[saxrulez]

I'm going to order a step/ladder for my boat today, but I haven't been able to figure something out while shopping.

All of the step/ladders that are labeled "outboard" have one rail that mounts to the transom above the platform and one below. All of the ones labeled I/O have both support rails above the platform. It seems like this would make getting in/out of the water easier, and I can't for the life of me figure out why all of the outboard platforms are setup that way.

I would prefer the I/O style, but I dont want to run into some unforeseen issue. Is it b/c the motor itself gets in the way somehow?

http://www.iboats.com/Afi-High-Dens...96301286--**********.909088556--view_id.37919

This is an example of what I'm looking at installing.

 

[castaic piper]

Re: Installing swim step/ladder

The powerhead would hit the rail.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Installing swim step/ladder

exactly, but you might be able to squeeze in a 2 rail platform. Look around the marina at other boats.
I have the single rail and it's a little harder getting in; I'm going to add a grab bar to the boat to compensate.

 

[Fireman431]

Re: Installing swim step/ladder

exactly, but you might be able to squeeze in a 2 rail platform. Look around the marina at other boats.
I have the single rail and it's a little harder getting in; I'm going to add a grab bar to the boat to compensate.

+1. Exactly what I did. The 12"-14" grab bars are only around $20 at the marine surplus store. Put it on top of the transom. Makes it much easier. I also added one at the center console.

 

[444]

Re: Installing swim step/ladder

I bought a universal hook shaped ladder for my boat. My outboard is not pracical to get in/out from the back, only the side so I wanted something easy to remove. Think I paid $30 for mine, similar to this one.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/GARE...at_Parts_Accessories_Gear&hash=item35ad2815a0