Brower Davit on Bow of 45 Express Bridge

There's one for sale at my marina...it was imported from the USA a few years ago and the tender was already there...I just don't like that set up very much...

__570697-1_400.jpg
 
It didn't come that way.

The worst case scenario is that they didn't relieve the core in the section they cut out to mount the davit and it could be wet or rotted. Nothing that a survey or a quick trip with a hammer and a moisture meter wouldn't figure out.
 
When did they add the side companionway on that model? I thought they were a walk up-and-over design? Always thought that was a very strange setup. That boat does have a lot of elevation changes too.
 
I wonder what the safe lift rating would be for this unit. I would assume that there would be a large backing plate to support the weight once it is lowered over the side. At that point, there would be a lot of stress put on the deck's surface.
 
electricaldoctor said:
I wonder what the safe lift rating would be for this unit. I would assume that there would be a large backing plate to support the weight once it is lowered over the side. At that point, there would be a lot of stress put on the deck's surface.
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They usually go through the deck, through a closet and bolt to a stringer or something substantial in the bilge. It is not just mounted on the deck.
 
"They usually go through the deck, through a closet and bolt to a stringer or something substantial in the bilge. It is not just mounted on the deck."

OK, I understand. It would be much the same how a mast on a blow-bote is installed.
 
mmcguire2002 said:
Has anyone seen this set up before on a 45 express bridge? I am assuming this is after market. Does anyone know if this was an option and what the repercussions could be to this set up on this boat?

http://www.yachtworld.com/core/list...37/San-Diego/CA/United-States&boat_id=2305037
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When I was looking to upgrade there was one very nice 400DB, which had very similar setup. I'd say that this was the only show stopper item for me. I've posted similar question here on CSR and was advised to watch out for cored deck structure.

To verify I've contacted SR and was advised that this is not an option for the boat. In fact SR responded that the deck is designed only to have few people on it while a boat is stationed (not underway). So, this aftermarket installation clearly violates SR hull warranty or some sort of tech support, if you care for it.

Ihad several concerns:

1. How secured the dink is to the deck in the event if I get caught in heavy seas. This is something you can't test during regular sea trial.

2. The cradels are taking way too much room on the deck and when the dink is deployed you still can't use all the space with the sunpad as you do on all other boats. This would mean that in order resolve the issue you would need a removable cradels. that of course is just another few grand.

3. With the dink on the deck you no longer have your emergency exit via forward cabin hatch or even use it for ventilation. At least from the pictures it looked like there's much room to upen it.

So, despite the fact that I liked that 400DB a lot, I had to pass on it.

Hope this helps.
 
Not a Sea Ray option, but it does make for a nice alternative to the hydraulic platform, provided they are correctly installed and the boat's layout permits a proper install and you can live with the trade-offs.

The vertical weight must be supported by a vertical mast that must be run down through the deck and fastened to the hull. In most cases, there are no stringers anywhere near the application point so the weight is distributed by pouring an epoxy foundation where the mast contacts the hull. After that, expxy is built up around the mast to provide lateral support

The horizontal moment is controlled by cutting the deal,and removing the core as far back from the davit and possible then filling the void with epoxy and finally screwing the mounting plate to the strengthed deck.

You lose the interior space where the mast passes thru, you now have the forward deck access encumbered with the davit and dinghy....ok on a 400DB because you have side deck access, but a problem on the EB because your only safe deck access of over the bridge and down the front deck. Then there are the structural considerations.....if the installer took any short cuts on the above description, then you could be in for some expensive repairs in the future, or worse, a safety issue with the davit system.
 
fwebster said:
Not a Sea Ray option, but it does make for a nice alternative to the hydraulic platform, provided they are correctly installed and the boat's layout permits a proper install and you can live with the trade-offs.

The vertical weight must be supported by a vertical mast that must be run down through the deck and fastened to the hull. In most cases, there are no stringers anywhere near the application point so the weight is distributed by pouring an epoxy foundation where the mast contacts the hull. After that, expxy is built up around the mast to provide lateral support

The horizontal moment is controlled by cutting the deal,and removing the core as far back from the davit and possible then filling the void with epoxy and finally screwing the mounting plate to the strengthed deck.

You lose the interior space where the mast passes thru, you now have the forward deck access encumbered with the davit and dinghy....ok on a 400DB because you have side deck access, but a problem on the EB because your only safe deck access of over the bridge and down the front deck. Then there are the structural considerations.....if the installer took any short cuts on the above description, then you could be in for some expensive repairs in the future, or worse, a safety issue with the davit system.
Click to expand...

Thanks Frank. I'm actually a fan of the dinghy on the bow setup, but it sounds like there could be more risk than reward as it pertains to this vessel.
 
The narrow side decks are troublesome for me because we do have storms to deal with. There are 2 in our marina and it is a royal PITA to put storm lines on them because you have to unsnap/zip the entire bridge access just to get to the bow lines/cleats. You'd have to look at that particular boat in person to see the davit installation and to be sure the bridge was safely accessible.

But, the listing was impressive..................
 
Frank W. The boat referenced HAS side walkways. What's up with that? I recall you mentioning the difficult trip to the bow on these boats. This one appears different. Did they change the layout in it's twilight years???
 
Look at them in person.........barely the width of a boat shoe so it is difficult to take steps since one foot has to pass the other. Perhaps its a personal preference (or a hot button!), but just because there is a side deck doesn't make it safe to use. On a pretty sunny day with no wind that narrow deck looks a lot different than it does at midnite when you have to adjust lines or at 3AM when the storm surge dictates line attention.
 
fwebster said:
Look at them in person.........barely the width of a boat shoe so it is difficult to take steps since one foot has to pass the other. .....because there is a side deck doesn't make it safe to use. On a pretty sunny day with no wind that narrow deck looks a lot different than it does at midnite when you have to adjust lines or at 3AM when the storm surge dictates line attention.
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How true!! The side deck on my 330 is a joke. In just mild rocking I have to hold on for dear life. On a sunny flat day, piece of cake!!
 
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