Fender question

[chris in va]

So. I'm planning to take a trip up to Baltimore, leaving the boat in a dock while dining/shopping with some friends. While it's there, I'm guessing some fenders would be a good idea, and WallyWorld has some short 4" or longer, fatter 5". Which one would be good?<br /><br />Also, how are these things used? Do they attach to the boat, or the dock...where on the boat?

 

[Boatist]

Re: Fender question

Chris<br />I would buy bigger one than you think you need. That way will not be buying more next year. On my 21 foot boat front is 10 1/2 by 30 inch Mid and stern are 8 1/2 by 22. I also have to round 18 inch ones for stern for places have to back into dock. I up graded as first set were just too small. Flat ones tend to slide on the side and wear paint off. Round ones will roll instead of slide.

 

[chris in va]

Re: Fender question

Ok, so you think the 5" ones at WM won't work? Maybe I'll hit up a marine shop for some bigger ones.

 

[Boatist]

Re: Fender question

Chris<br />I personaly would not use a 5 inch fender on a row boat. I have no idea what size you need as have no idea if you have a 8 foot row boat or a 36 foot multi deck crusier.<br /><br />All I am saying is most people including me start with too small a fender. In general You want a fender on bow area to cushion boat when heading into the dock. It need to be big enough so that at any angel you come in will keep boat from hitting dock. Since most boats curve in at the front front fender need to be pretty big around so that curve of boat can not hit the dock before the next fender back does. Docks at all different heights so need one long enough to go from water line to highest dock you may find. Also some docks hot even may have bumper in some places and broke off in others.<br /><br />Find location where you want to hang your front fender and your middle fender, now take a 2 by 4 and hold up like a dock and see how big a fender you need so 2 by 4 can not hit the boat.<br /><br />Many fender have a inflation valve and I like that as can use anywhere. On a hot day at 5000 foot lake will need to let some air out. Then on a very cold day at sea level will need to add a lot of air. Many fenders have lifetime waranttys and I have had some replaced at West Marine with no paper work at all. Just bring fender in go get same type and size and they take care of the rest.