Metal grommets for swim step

[ssobol]

I have a Honda generator. I want to secure it to the swim step when it is running. I figure a ratchet strap will hold it. To attach the strap to the swim step I'm thinking about drilling holes in each side of the step for the strap hooks, I would like to put some sort of metal reinforcing ring or grommet to protect the fiberglass.

Does anyone know of something that will serve that can be installed without the use of some expensive tool to install it?

Thanks.

 

[Sunbeam]

I think I'd be tempted to use some sort of low profile ring-type deck hardware, and install them with backing plates or washers. Possibly recessed type if you don't want anything protruding on the side. This would be strong and might tend to keep the hooks and strap off the platform (from rubbing on the sides, etc.), which seems like it might be an issue with just holes.

Schaefer makes some removable eyes that just leave a female threaded hole when you take them out (plus there is a plastic plug you can put in the hole if desired.

Deck hardware probably doesn't fit if you are trying to keep it super inexpensive though. It's possible there might be some application for VHB, but I'd be nervous about the generator falling off if it failed.

Another idea: Do you use your swim platform for walking over? If not, you might consider replacing a couple of the ladder fasteners with eye bolts and then fastening the generator to those. You could always put the regular machine screw back at a later date. (The top of the platform is cored, so you'd want to seal off the core, especially in any hole where you are removing/replacing fasteners; but other than that there is no harm in not bedding one of the fasteners since the other side (bottom) just leads to the water). I'm picturing the eye bolt on top of the platform. This would also tend to keep any hooks off the gelcoat, since it'd be on top plus there are the metal "top plates" for the ladder backing.

 

[Wefings]

Take a look at this system .
The Tee Bolt and Deck Plate would work well with a ratchet strap.
Marc

 

[ssobol]

Thanks for the replies. I don't like the idea of stuff sticking up out of the swim step (tripping hazard). However, your ideas lead me to folding pad eyes which is what I'll probably use. Mount one on each side of the swim step. When not in use the ring is fairly unobtrusive.

http://www.marinepartdepot.com/wibeshonoc14.html

Thanks.

 

[Wandering Sagebrush]

You might think about using a Footman's Loop for the strap. Low profile, unobtrusive.

 

[thataway]

You can also mount any hardware, such as footman's loop, on the bolts which hold the boarding ladder in place.

However, if you have the standard swim step, I would just put eye bolts, or pad eye, on the side of the swim step. Nothing on the top, and bolts are in shear, instead of straight pull.

We put a "milk crate" Plastic from West Marine, on the swim step, be sure it does not go flying with a simple tie to the stern eye. (could add a second eye thru the splash well), and then use the strap thru the sides of the " milk crate" We made a plywood board, with small intents for each of the motor feet, and also cleats which fit into the milk crate. Board saturated with epoxy and painted white. Works very well, and no chance of the motor getting wet when that occasional wake comes along from the stern.