Is a 14in Swim Platform worth the effort?

[JohnEGraham]

Hi. I have the opportunity to get a 14in wide (88in long) fiberglass platform for basically free. There is some damage a structural crack.
So is it worth putting it on my 1998 25ft sundancer? Next winter project.
I have a small 18in. molded swim platform built into the boat. (8.5 beam) I would do the repair myself and install it myself. I have a small 8 ft. Zodiac that I would like to be able to slide up when I am out?
If you have added a small platform like this do you think it is worth it? and how envolved is the repair like this would be?
And yes Money is an object with 2 kids in college so 2k is out for a new one.
Thanks. John G.

 

[Nehalennia]

Fix it first. See if it comes out nicely. If it meets your expectations and the repair is sound, bolt it on.

 

[Hampton]

In addition to what Scott said, I think it's worth the effort for the additional space. I assume it's a custom platform for your boat, or at least fits like a custom. There's plenty of people who pay the $2,000 for the same mod - plus go through the trouble. Yours would just be a little effort and some minimal expenses, most likely.

 

[Lazy Daze]

You'll have to be the final judge on the aesthetics. The above posts do bring up a good point about re-sale. But depending on how long you're planning on keeping the boat, that may be less of an issue. Besides, if it ends up looking good, it will help.

Aside from all that, I would definitely suggest adding a platform to your boat. When the camper canvas is up, it's awkward (and a bit unsafe) to walk across the platform since the rear seat juts out over the platform. If you're not careful, you end up running into the seat with your thigh, which then bumps you off balance. Someone that's not expecting it can easily be bumped off - which means they'll probably land on the outdrive.

That being said, it is a lovely boat. Very nicely "trimmed" on the inside.

 

[dpmulvey]

Platforms are like fun and money. No such thing as too much.

 

[JohnEGraham]

Thanks for all the info. Great site.
I measured the Zodiac and the swimplatform I have to admit it: Its not really going to work. (damn, damn, double damn)
I think I will just keep looking for a 20+ inches. Pleanty time till winter projects and I don't want to store it.
Thanks all. John G

 

[Lazy Daze]

www.swimplatforms.com

The guys that own that business used to work for Sea Ray. Guess what department they were in???:smt001

 

[jakebrake]

it's basically free, fiberglass mating and resin are cheap eough. If it turns out bad, you just don't put it on. This way , you can learn how fiberglass "works" (as in, goes down, behaves) . if it turns out crappy, oh well. If it turns out nice however, it would look good on the back of your boat, wouldn't it?

how many times did thomas edison fail? i rest my case.