Changing cleat to ski ring?

[Hard Times]

I just bought a beautiful 1991 Bayliner Capri 2050. The boat has a cleat in the rear transom, and I want to tow tubes, skis, and maybe later, wakeboarders. My question is, how do I change out the cleat to a ski ring? Do I need to re-enforce the back with something, and if so, what and where do I get it? Will the holes match up, or should I just use the cleat that is there? Any help is appreciated.

Dano

 

[df909]

Re: Changing cleat to ski ring?

I have a 1992 Capri and had the same questions. Don't use the cleat as it's not made to pull people and you don't want a 5 pound projectile flinging towards anyone at 5000mph. If you were to install a tow ring you will have to put a beefy backing plate behind it. Also, the holes probably will not match.

The easiest thing is to buy is a tow harness that attaches to the boat's transom tie down eyes. Here's a link to one: http://www.iboats.com/mall/image/vendor/16/big/38991.gif.

 

[Hard Times]

Re: Changing cleat to ski ring?

I have a 1992 Capri and had the same questions. Don't use the cleat as it's not made to pull people and you don't want a 5 pound projectile flinging towards anyone at 5000mph. If you were to install a tow ring you will have to put a beefy backing plate behind it. Also, the holes probably will not match.

The easiest thing is to buy is a tow harness that attaches to the boat's transom tie down eyes. Here's a link to one: http://www.iboats.com/mall/image/vendor/16/big/38991.gif.

That is sweet!!! I didn't even know they made something like that. So you get under boat while in water, or before you launch it?

 

[Hard Times]

Re: Changing cleat to ski ring?

Who is the vendor that sells those? I just opened, but it is just a pic.

 

[Hard Times]

Re: Changing cleat to ski ring?

Found it. Anyone using this? Does it interfere with the propeller at all?

 

[df909]

Re: Changing cleat to ski ring?

You can get them at any boating or sporting store. That pic is from here at iboats. I put them on right before we go out tubing. I'll lay flat over the swim step and reach down to attach them to the transom eyes. Or, if the water isn't too chilly and I'm not being too much of a whimp I'll walk out to attach them while on the beach. You just have to make sure you don't back over them since ropes and props hate each other.

 

[Hard Times]

Re: Changing cleat to ski ring?

Got it. thanks. this seems like a much better alternative to changing the cleat out and having to fill holes left behind.