Boarding Ladders

Lake Diver

Cadet
Joined
Nov 9, 2002
Messages
13
I tried posting this question under "Divers", but no response, so I'll try it here. Anyone familiar with the "Christmas tree" ladders for divers to climb while wearing fins? With full dive gear (dry suit), I'll weigh a total of around 350 lbs. Because of the extra weight, when mounting a ladder on transom, should I drill all the way through and bolt it on, or are the recommended screws sufficient? I was also wondering about the folding ladders for emergencies. They hang from a rope, have four steps, and are around 12" when not deployed. Would greatly appreciate any advice you all could offer on this.
 

Solittle

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Apr 28, 2002
Messages
7,518
Re: Boarding Ladders

Lake Diver - I fought the dam* things for years. The folding ladders always got in the way and all of the others did not go deep enough into the water.<br /><br />I have a transom platform that is through the hull bolted on the starboard side of the boat. It is a half platform due to the outboards hanging on the back. It came with a single step fold down. When in the water the bottom of this step only went down into the water about a foot. It was absolutely useless. I am 61 years old, weigh 200 lbs and don't quite have the strength I did 20-30 years ago to leap up and over. <br /><br />I was explaining the problem to a neighbor who is a welder. He had me go to a steel yard and get some stainless tube. He fabricated a replacement for my one step. It goes down about 3' into the water. Each step is 3 tubes welded together so that the step is wide enough for comfort on the feet. Works like a charm and is quite comfortable also for the 5' 9" little lady.<br /><br />My son is 6'4", about 280 lbs, and a scuba diver. He uses it with no problem<br /><br />Contact a welding shop if you don't know a welder personally. You will not regret it.<br /><br />By the way screws won't cut it. Use hefty stainless bolts and smear the holes with 5200.
 
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