ladder question

Hey I got a 1988 celebrity open bow that has a one step ladder that feels like Im wrapping my leg behind my head everytime I try to get in the boat. Can I replace the existing ladder by just getting another to bolt into boat? Is there some kind of plate under the fiberglass where the ladder is mounted or what? And could I even mount it and the other side of the rear of boat? Im looking at a possible 2 or3 step ladder.
Thanks

Re: ladder question

i really don't know the answer. but i can't help but think a ladder would have some kinda back plate for it's bolt mounting point. they take a pretty large load when yer climbing them. can you look to see if it's got a back plate? if ya do mount a ladder in another spot. i'd think use a back plate.

fwiw. i don't use a ladder to get back in my boat. i'm a drive climber. works good and it's always there. albeit a little on the dangerous side for cutting your foot. i would assume i've slipped and hurt myself, but can't remember doing that as i been drive climbing since i was a kid in the 70's.. all i know is climbing the drive works well for me (practice makes perfect)... if i do need a ladder. i use a hang over the gunnel type.

probably not the answer ya were looking for. just food for thought.

Re: ladder question

Post a photo of the stern/ladder

Re: ladder question

^+1. Need a pic. Up here in Ontario you have to have a re-boarding device if your freeboard is greater than 20 inches. You obviously have an existing ladder, just get a longer one from here or your local marine supply. There's tons of them out there. I would suggest a stainless backing plate on the inside when bolting it on. Can never be too careful.

Re: ladder question

I also have a one-step ladder on the back of mine. Makes getting back in after being tired from skiing or tubing very difficult. I decided to buy a collapsable hook type ladder that hangs over the side of the boat. Makes getting in/out much easier.

Re: ladder question

I have replaced 3 ladders on various boats and have yet to find one that was backed with anything more than a fender washer, a split washer, and then a nyloc nut.

Your best bet is to find a replacement ladder with the smae mounting pattern as the original, but with additional rungs. Take a look (or probably just a feel) at the current one and see what's there. My Carver has a 3-rung collapsing ladder that the manual says has a 600 lb capacity. It's backed with the washers as listed above and (4) 1/4" x 20 SS bolts.

Re: ladder question

I took my ladder on and off for paint. It's bolted through the fiberglass hull, through blocks of wood to help distribute the weight, then washers and nuts.

Re: ladder question

You can buy an extra step that will bolt on giving you a "two step" ladder. Two Step is very popular in Texas....