Aluminum Swim Platform switch

Padraig · 08-26-2009, 09:46 AM

Has anyone ever switched out the fiberglass swim platform for an aluminum type? This is on a 280 but I imagine a 260 would be about the same.

I have never liked the fiberglass platform and I have seen a few with the aluminum pipe type platform and like the look.

I thought that I would call the factory and see what they had, if anything but would check with the board first.

Velocity Vector · 08-26-2009, 11:27 AM

On the 320, I called the factory and they told me it wasn't a easy job and the platform is molded with the boat so it would have to be cut out and re-fiberglassed. then add the aluminum platform.

Padraig · 08-26-2009, 12:07 PM

Thanks. On my 280 it is bolted on so hopefully it will be easier although I need to look at exactly how it is attached. It would be nice if I could get one that would bolt up to the original holes in the transom.

Padraig · 08-27-2009, 11:30 AM

Looks like no one has ever done or looked into this so I guess I'll give the factory call. I will let you know what I find out.

Thanks,

Revd Up · 08-27-2009, 10:51 PM

I tried to take mine off a while back and could not get it off. I believe they use 3M 5200 as an adhesive. I jumped up and down on it with no bolts in it. It didn't even budge. I would think you would damage the gel coat getting it off. Good luck

Pat McPherson · 08-28-2009, 04:47 PM

Before I bought my boat, I almost bought Shore Thing's boat. That boat had the aluminum tube plateform. While I agree they do look a little better, I think the fiberglass plateform is more functional.
Before the boats had the plateform part of the deck mold like VV's boat, is was an option to have the aluminum or the fiberglass.
I'm sure it is possible to switch but it's going to cost at least 2K for the aluminum and it's going to be a real pain to get the old one off.

Padraig · 08-28-2009, 05:01 PM

This is not sounding good. <g>

Pat, just curious, why do you think the fiberglass is more functional?

Thanks,

Pat McPherson · 08-28-2009, 05:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Padraig

This is not sounding good. <g>

Pat, just curious, why do you think the fiberglass is more functional?

Thanks,

It sits lower to the water and is easier on the feet.
I had the aluminum ones on my 24' Pantera and my 24' Superboat.
Having one large nonskid surface vs tubes with sandpaper works a little better.

Revd Up · 08-28-2009, 05:48 PM

I like the fiberglass one better too. The aluminum ones are nice looking but very uncomfortable. I was only trying to take mine off to get more room in my garage while working on the drive. They also work great to difuse waves if you get them slapping up on the transom.

nashpda · 09-16-2009, 10:52 PM

My 1997 260 didn't have a swim platform when I bought it but I added the aluminum platform. It wasn't a big deal. Purchased it through TNT marine. Great people to work with.