Swim Step extension for 1990 Capri 1800

[Illini River]

Hi all.

I just bought my first boat (1990 Capri 1800 with a 90 HP Force) and couldn't be happier. Bought from a very reputable Marina in my home area. Boat runs great, no problems with the motor (the dealer replaced a bad stator) but the first time out it fired up with absolutely no problems and runs strong. The interior is in astonishingly good condition, no rips, tears, stains, etc. and I've gotten several compliments on it's condition the few times I've had it on the river already.

(Sorry had to describe the new member of the family)!


Anyway - the only thing I'd like to improve at the moment is the swim step. Having only 1 step, it's going to be harder for mom/dad, even myself from time to time to get back in the boat. Is there an extension that you can buy, that you can clamp on to your current ladder, or would I actually have to replace the whole thing. I've looked around quite a bit and can't seem to come up with anything.


Thanks for all your help!

 

[Rob454]

Re: Swim Step extension for 1990 Capri 1800

You can get one of those telescoping 3 step ladders and bolt it to the existing step
Rob

 

[Bigprairie1]

Re: Swim Step extension for 1990 Capri 1800

The short answer is yes, there are things you can clamp onto the existing ladder....but you may have to have them made.
I have the exact boat and swim ladder and it appears to be a very specific design with the way it folds up and mounts.
I work in design engineering and if I couldn't find a product out there to suit, I would take the entire unit off the boat (...not too difficult) and take it into a manufacturing/fabrication shop that can also work in stainless.
I would explain what I wanted and see if they could come up with something.
I envision it being not overly difficult...but it does require a little design thought.
Without a doubt tho' ...more money. If you can find a replacement unit that offers more length perhaps look at an entirely different mounting system...would definitely be cheaper.

 

[JAL51974]

Re: Swim Step extension for 1990 Capri 1800

there is a unit made by Garelick I believe that is two steps, alum with plastic inserts on the rungs that hangs by rope. I use it on mine and just keep it on top of the swim platform and tie it off to the step that is integral to the swim platform. I think the name is EEZ-IN, works great. There is another one that hooks onto the existing step but i couldn't use it on mine as there wasn't enough room on the sides of the existing step to hook it onto. You would have to take it off and store inside the boat when underway, kind of a pain in that respect. don't remember the manufacturer.