180 SPORT - WakeTower install

[Sth_Aussie_Pete]

Hi folks,
I have finally managed to save for a Waketower for our 180 Sport boat.
Wondering if anyone out there has done an install them selves and has any comments , tips, do's and dont's that may be helpful.
Did you re-enforce the fixings with a backing plate ?
Where did you install it ? ie top deck, side etc
How has the install performed , ie. have you had any problems.
Did you keep your Bimini ?
Any info much appreciated.
Cheers Pete

 

[WazzuCMGrad]

Hi, Pete:
I did this on a 2004 180 Sport. If you bought a factory tower, there is already reinforcement in the fiberglass for it. You can always add more if you think it's best.

The bimini that is in your picture won't fit with a factory tower; plan to sell it and buy another that mounts on the tower.

Installing - use lots of blue tape, take your time, measure over and over and over again. Use a couple of friends. Use thread lubricant (the graphite stuff) on the large SS bolts, and be VERY careful; I had one lock up and wouldn't thread, I had to snap it off and order another.

Let me know if there's anything else you want to know about. Good luck!

 

[SandyD]

I have a 2008 175 Sport with a dealer installed wake tower. I can tell you it has metal (aluminum or stainless) backing plates. It is rock solid. The Bimini top was retained and does not interfere with the tower.

 

[bassadict69]

Would love to see pics of the process of installing this...

 

[wish2fish]

Frisco Boater used to be around here. This is his intall

[video=youtube;zHqLup58ES0]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHqLup58ES0[/video]

[video=youtube;akIYW4yMDZc]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akIYW4yMDZc[/video]