CD25 Cockpit Steps

bshillam · Posted: Mon Aug 16, 2021 2:57 pm Post subject:

I don't mind pulling, rebuilding the steps. Unfortunately they have been left by the previous owner for a long time and the gel coat is in poor shape with spider cracks throughout. I am thinking it might be best to give the steps to a fiberglass shop and let them take crack at it, the waffle pattern can't be all that unusual. In fact, it would be nice to have them come out slightly wider and longer. Anyone had something larger made?

LesR · Posted: Mon Aug 16, 2021 5:59 pm Post subject:

I went through the same process earlier this year with the steps on my boat, which I think is only a year different than yours. I remember this thread from a few years ago, which reminded me that delaying action on Bob Austin's advice is generally not a good idea. The balsa core had rotted to a few inches deep, but the steps themselves were in decent shape.

I like the idea of constructing something a little wider, though you'll not want to be too generous or risk interfering with the back door when fully opened.

thataway · Posted: Mon Aug 16, 2021 7:21 pm Post subject:

The size of the steps like all in a boat--there is a compromise. For some, they want a set of several steps, and don't mind giving up cockpit room. often the 2 or even 3 step modification (usually teak treads and SS rails), can be moved from side to side.

You are correct that the "waffle pattern" is not the best non skid. In boats where I re-did the deck, I have used various grits in paint and in epoxy, than painted over. The most aggressive material I have used was ground up walnut shells (they are used to polish fan blades of jet engines, and I bought a lifetime supply from McDonald Douglas's surplus store in Long Beach CA--many years ago. The lest agreesive I have used was micro beads of glass. Sand (as well as non skid) comes in may grits. I once used a fairly "sharp" sand when redoing deck paints on a racing boat--and managed to wear right thru a pair of foul weather gear on the side decks in a couple of days sailing...

designbug · Posted: Tue Aug 17, 2021 11:43 am Post subject:

I had a fiberglass shop here in Annapolis build and install two new steps. I decided to go with the same size and a slightly different non-skid pattern. It wasn't cheap but I am very happy with the results.

bshillam · Posted: Tue Aug 17, 2021 12:07 pm Post subject:

Mind sharing pictures and cost?

designbug · Posted: Tue Aug 17, 2021 3:33 pm Post subject:

Cost for both steps was $2k. I'm not at the boat right now but will try to post pictures later. The new steps look similar to the originals but are much sturdier.