Ladder on Avalanche

[Mack McMillin]

Hey Guys,

I bought a ladder to mount on my Avalanche. I like having a ladder on a boat. Its a safety thing. I fish by myself most always and having fallen from a boat before, figured I better put one on. Especially in the winter with lots of clothes on, its tough getting back in the boat.



I have mounted them on glass boats before, but never on aluminum. I bought stainless #10 screws to mount it with, but before I go start drilling into my new boat, figured I would ask you guys if you can think of any taboos about doing this.

 

[JAMES MOORE]

Hey Mack, from what I've seen on mine should't be a major problem. If your drilling into the back portion just be careful not to drill into any of the stringers. These are the cross pieces that give the boat it's strength. Drilling into them can create a week spot in the stringer causing it to breake under extreme conditions. Drill between the reinforcements for the best results. Preferably attach the ladder so a renforcement piece is running between the end screwed down. On the back compartment, lift the lid and you'll see the reinforcement. Good Luck Jim

 

[TrepMan]

Mack - Can't speak for the Avalanche but I had one put on my 175 2 years ago. Obviously do it where you can get access too the inside so that you are thru bolting the mountings. Remember to use a good silicone to seal both sides, and use the nuts with plastic inserts that make it extra hard for them to come loose.



Agree with Jim about the stringer, if you've got a camera/scanner or digital camera take some pics during the process and e-mail the project to Rich for posting in the grab bag!!



I use mine for getting the family in/out of the water for tubing, swiming and kneeboarding!!