Pulling a tube

[sid the squid]

I've got a 2005 21' bayliner CC with a tow cleat(I guess that is what it is called) centered on the swim platform. Is it better to tow a tube using that cleat or would it be better to rig a harness using the aft cleats on either side. It is a one person tube, no one bigger than about 220 lbs. Thanks

 

[mole2]

Re: Pulling a tube

If the tow (ski) cleat has a backing plate then I don't see why you can't use it. I just installed a recessed tow/ski cleat on my 2005 Trophy 2052. You can see it here:

Tow/Ski Cleat Install on 2005 Trophy 2052

 

[boater56]

Re: Pulling a tube

We have the same boat. We pull our two kids, one 7, the other 14, together all the time using the tow ring. I've never checked to see if there is a backing plate on it. Seems to work pretty good though.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Pulling a tube

the aft cleats are designed for docking and mooring, not the extreme stress of towing. on some boats they aren't even thru bolted.

 

[ruf1967]

Re: Pulling a tube

That tow hook has a backing plate and is actually designed to pull a skier. I'm 200lbs and ski behind my boat with no problems. However, if you would really rather use a tow harness, hook it to the transom eyes not the stern cleats. Don't fret, just get wet!

 

[NBE]

Re: Pulling a tube

The transom eyes, if you have them, are probably your best bet. That is what they are made for, among other things. Use the tow harness with them.

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: Pulling a tube

My center tow cleat will pull a 3 person tube just fine...I have used the side transom eyes with a ski harness but prefer the center one..

 

[deejaycee_2000]

Re: Pulling a tube

If the tow (ski) cleat has a backing plate then I don't see why you can't use it. I just installed a recessed tow/ski cleat on my 2005 Trophy 2052. You can see it here:

Tow/Ski Cleat Install on 2005 Trophy 2052

good job .....