Towing mounts on transom?

[Slayer33]

I have a 3.6m Salter SIB and I just upgraded the motor from a Nissan 9.8 to a mercury 20hp.

I'm looking to see if its possible to tow an inflatable tow toy behind my SIB and what needs to be done to do so....

My transom doesn't have any hooks or loops on it, I have lots of D-rings I could use on the tubes but I don't think this is good for towing?

Do most ppl install stainless U-bolts on the transom and use these to attach a bridle to tow a toy?

At most I would be towing my wife and daughter or (150lbs total) or my daughter and her cousin (80 lbs)... my transom is rated at 325lbs or 20hp motor..

any suggestions?

[chipko]

U-bolts or eye-bolts and bridle have been good for us. With a Suzuki 20hp on 3.5/3.8m inflatable able to pull young adults on wakeboard, kneeboard or ringos. Try and position towing points high and wide on transom for better towing, and a bridle with a floating pulley is good for keeping lines clear of prop. Have fun.

Edit: 325lbs is a massive transom weight limit on a 3.6m sib! The transoms on our boats were only rated at 55kg (121lbs) and 72kg (159lbs) respectively. Never pulled one off though.[emoji106]

[Slayer33]

I know right?! The transom says 325lbs capacity, but I seriously doubt that is real... I don't see how the transom on mine is any different than the others out there.


Thanks! Any concerns or worry about the U-bolts ripping out or the transom getting damaged when towing?

[chipko]

Originally Posted by Slayer33

Thanks! Any concerns or worry about the U-bolts ripping out or the transom getting damaged when towing?

No worries but always keep an eye on any tube/transom flexing in any swell/chop at speed towing or not. The blue boat is a Zodiac and they fit the thinnest transoms imaginable, but still been fine.
Fit large A4 ss penny washers inside for eye bolts to spread load. U-bolts will come with a rectangular plate/washer any way. Also use a good marine sealant to preserve transom.

[Slayer33]

Awesome thanks for the pictures! I'll be installing these Sea-Dog : Quality Marine, Industrial and Rigging Hardware onto my transom in similar locations as yours!