Surfgate version 3.0
Finally got tired of storing and having to bolt on my surfgate...built a semi permanent one. Hopefully testing this weekend. Any thoughts or suggestions?
|
Pics
4 Attachment(s)
Pics
|
Computation Fluid Dynamics is for nerds anyways. Is this a prototype or the completed deal?
I would have used more fasteners everywhere. I bet you see cracks develop at the fastener holes in the transom. Need to increase your bearing surface area. http://www.bgstructuralengineering.c...BGSCM00306.htm Did you put a doubler on the inside of the transom? Is that hinge only attached half length with 2 fasteners on the "gate"? That makes me nervous. Id put a doubler under them or increase the number. I also see some eccentric loading, looks like the support, hinge, and running surface arent all centered. Im sure it will work right now. idk about next year. |
Its not attached to the boat at all....only the platform.
|
Quote:
|
Also. there is never any pleasing me. I'd critique the space shuttle if i had the opportunity hahaha
|
You could get a sheet of black 3/4" HDPE if you wanted it to look better. At least it's painted! And it kind of matches the swim platform. As long as it's functional, right? If that's waterproof stain/sealer then I don't see why it wouldn't last a couple seasons.
|
Quote:
Most of the loading would be handled by either actuator (on surf gate equipped boats) or by the "rod" on the home made versions that holds the gate out. IMO if the gate is attached to the transom, the attachment point sees very little loading if any and is there only to give a fixture point for the gate. Now, if you stood on the gate, that would be another ball game. |
what did you use for the adjustable arm/pole?
I have been searching for something, thinking about an old cane like my grandpa used to use... |
Quote:
|
Yeah, I agree on using black HDPE. Looks SO much better, and it's really easy to work with.
And I also agree on some kind of bracket to mount the pole/cane to the gate itself. that little wooden assembly you have there looks thrown together at best. But you're getting closer. Just think your boat deserves a little more aesthetically pleasing solution. |
Try an aluminum rod with heim joints at each end for a more appealing rod look.
|
The idea is to get the positioning and shape/angles worked out...then go HDPE and more than likely Lencos. I didn't want to just jump in and start drilling if it didn't work out well.
|
Just a thought, I have seen people using the dual suction handle on the side of the boat for a "suckgate", is there any reason that you couldn't use one of these to secure the base of your gate to the transom? Just a thought.....
|
All times are GMT -7. The time now is 4:21 AM. |