540 DA dinghy

Steve36

Steve36

Member
May 17, 2007
177
Lake Ontario
Boat Info
2010 540DA
Engines
Cummins 8.3L Zeus Drives
Hi there just wondering how you would tie down a 11 foot dinghy to the swim platform.
The dinghy is a Caribe with a 40hp motor.
Just checked the swim platform and there are no tie down hooks installed.
Not sure if I should install some or if there is another way.
 
I assume you have a hydraulic swim step? If so, you just need to add a few D-Rings so you can strap it down.
 
Usually one under the how d-ring and 2 under the transom.
 
I can't tell you where to bolt the D-rings on your swim platform, but I can tell you that the best way to secure the tender is by criss-crossing the straps at the bow and the stern.
 
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I am dealing with the same thing with my 560 Sedan bridge. I have a Mercury 350 with a 40hp. I currently only have D-rings at the bow and stern and it's not enough in anything over 2' seas. I am adding pop-up cleats at the bow and stern as well as an additional two on each side for cross-tieing. I will add back plates underneath for strength as well. I know several boaters who have lost a dinghy when not tied down with straps properly. Also... if in a following sea, be sure to cover the dinghy. I know someone who broke the platform due to water weight from following seas filling the dinghy.
 
Steve

Install 4 d-rings and you will be ok

a) position the tender on the chocks in the exact location you want it. (so it sit equally within the platform edges)
b) install 2 D-rings forward and to the side of the box ring. I use 1 strap I hook to one D-ring pass it through the bow rind and hook to the other D-Ring and ratchet tight
c) Install 2 D-rings aft of the transom rings and to the sides. Use two straps.

This way when the straps are tight they create forward and back angles that prevent the tender from sliding on the chocks, and hold it down.

Rich
 
Marc

I never had an issues with just the 4 D-rings, but I do agree with covering the tender. Even just slowing down from cruise speed will bring water over the platform and if you slow down to fast it will spill over into the tender. Also a custom cover always look sharp in the same color as you canvas zipper strips

Rich
 
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