Attaching Ladder To Swim Platform

[thedukeryan]

I fabricated a ladder to replace the original one which is missing. With that said it is going to be very difficult to get some nut & washers underneath the swim platform to hold it all together. What I am thinking is that I can find some sort of expanding wall anchor that will hold. What do you guys think? Any suggestions? Anyone done something similar? The ladder brackets are drilled out for three 1/4" bolts on each size. I could expand these up to 1/2" no problem if need be.

 

[45Auto]

Re: Attaching Ladder To Swim Platform

What kind of boat is it? Can you get to the inside of the swim platform through the engine compartment?

Only kind of wall anchor I can imagine that you would have a chance with would be the spring-loaded expanding toggle bolts. I don't think they're stainless, they would rust out pretty quick with the moisture inside the hull. I wouldn't trust them on a ladder.

I think I would cut an access hole and then put one of the screw-on flush covers on the access hole before I would use toggle bolts.

 

[thedukeryan]

Re: Attaching Ladder To Swim Platform

Im thinking about these expanding anchors.

http://homerepair.about.com/od/interiorhomerepair/ss/wall_fastening_7.htm

There are plenty of zinc plated ones locally that should work. I guess my main concern is them busting out or rusting. I am thinking six 1/4" ones should hold without to much stress. Shouldn't the zinc plate offer enough water protection to last a few seasons? It is possible to reach under the swim platform but would be extremely frustrating. It is a 23' Wellcraft Eclipse below is a pic.

 

[Bob's Garage]

Re: Attaching Ladder To Swim Platform

Why would you want to crap up a really nice boat, not just once but every other year and risk injury to you or a passenger?

There are SS threaded toggle inserts that are designed to be used for securing pedestal seats that would be better than that junk.

However, the best course of action would be to cut an access so that yoiu can reach the screws, back the screws with SS fender washers and lock nuts, then install a threaded (or press) fit cover. You will only have to do it once and it will be done right.

Don't forget to seal the raw edges of the hole, countersink the screw holes and fill with 5200 to seal them.

Your boat is an investment in time and money, treat it well, and it will last for many years.

 

[Jeep Man]

Re: Attaching Ladder To Swim Platform

What material are you drilling into, after the gel coat and fibreglas? Expanding anchors can further damage the gel coat and fibreglas, depending what if anything is beyond it.

 

[redone4x4]

Re: Attaching Ladder To Swim Platform

i would just take the really frustrating route. I have done really frustrating things on my boat, but i only had to do them once and it was soo much nicer after that. i would think it would be worth it. that thing looks awesome, it deserves nuts and bolts, even if they are frustrating

 

[thedukeryan]

Re: Attaching Ladder To Swim Platform

Well... I am gonna try the hard way to see if I can make the stretch and get some stainless nuts/bolts to work. The thing that I forgot to mention is that I have the boat listed for sale. Not wanting to half @ss it but I have plenty of projects and just want something for while I have it. Even if I do decide to take the easy route I will disclose any possible issues to a would be buyer. With all that said with some frustration I should be able to get it to work.