Modifying fiberglass swim platform

[Linc33]

Not sure if this is bad forum etiquette, but I think I posted my question in the wrong forum.

If anyone here has some advice for modifying and attaching a fiberglass swim platform, please see this post:

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=302933

Thanks,
Linc

 

[J. Mark]

Re: Modifying fiberglass swim platform

To transfer the shape of your hull, set a couple of saw horses up to hold the platform as close to the approximate position as possible. With the platform touching the hull, measure the largest gap. Using a piece of wood, cut the end to a point like you would for a tomato stake.

Drill a hole the same distance from the tip of this the same distance you measured the gap just large enough to hold a pencil.

Hold the point of the wood against the transom and flat against the platform and try to keep it at a 90 degree angle to the hull, move it across the hull tracing a line onto the platform.

This is how I patterned my stringers and floor boards. Even with the curves of the hull I was never more than a 1/8" off after cutting.

I wouldn't presume to say how to cut or mount the platform without seeing more detail.

 

[Linc33]

Re: Modifying fiberglass swim platform

Thanks for the reply J. Mark, I appreciate it. Can anyone else offer any additional input on this project?

Here are the details from the other post:

Hi iBoats, been a while (almost a year to be exact). I'd like to tap the collective wisdom of this board for my next project.

I acquired a very nice fiberglass swim platform including undermount stainless 3 step ladder last year for about $300. This platform was custom made for a Sea Ray 180 by a well known aftermarket swim platform company. I own a Rinker 180 and am looking for advice on best way to adapt the 'profile' of the platform to match the contours of my stern.

The amount of $ a couple local fiberglass places wanted to charge was really high but only b/c of the time involved, not the complexity.

I'm looking for suggestions on any/all of the following:

1. How to accurately trace the contour of my stern onto the leading edge of the platform.

2. How to cleanly and accurately cut this profile on the edge of the platform.

3. How to paint or otherwise seal the newly cut edge of the platform.

4. Best way to drill/screw/seal the holes to attach platform to my hull. I believe I won't have access to through bolt on the bottom of the stanless brackets.

The attached pictures show a similar swim platform already attached to a Sea Ray 180 and the other picture is my boat's stern. I will be mounting the platform just below the rubrail.

Thanks in advance for any input you can provide.

-Linc

Thanks,
Linc

 

[danond]

Re: Modifying fiberglass swim platform

Grinders with flapping wheels sometimes make a better template maker than trying to cut perfectly on the first shot. Use the example above, then grind it to match up perfectly.

As far as bolting it goes, I don't think you should put it on if you can't bolt through the transom. You're asking for it to pull off.

More pictures are definitely needed. A profile shot of both would be nice.

 

[Linc33]

Re: Modifying fiberglass swim platform

Grinders with flapping wheels sometimes make a better template maker than trying to cut perfectly on the first shot. Use the example above, then grind it to match up perfectly.

As far as bolting it goes, I don't think you should put it on if you can't bolt through the transom. You're asking for it to pull off.

More pictures are definitely needed. A profile shot of both would be nice.

Thanks for the repy.

I will get some more pictures up. I should be able to through-bolt along the leading edge of the platform as it attaches to the boat, but not sure I can on the bottom of the 2 stainless poles that angle out to the outer edge of the platform.

-Linc