Installing rub rails

[schroath]

I'd like to install rub rails after I paint the hull this fall. Has anyone done this? Any information on location, materials and method would be appreciated.

 

[tim_klynn]

I've never installed rubrails, but marine stores probably have a kit, here's one from Defender.com :

http://www.defender.com/realproduct.jsp?path=-1|10391|321176|757306&id=758038

I would guess you would want to locate the rub rails at the height of the object you intend to hit and install them in a manner such that they will not be ripped off at impact, which of course depends on how hard you intend to impact and what it is that you are ramming. I think it is safe to say use more fasteners if you plan on repetitive full hull speed crashes into barnacle encrusted concrete pilings and use less fasteners if your plan is for an occasional barely drifting bump into a seaweed covered inflatable mooring ball.

Personally, I just try to manoeuver my boat to avoid bumping into things, that works pretty well. Or maybe I should say that and having a nimble girlfriend for running forward to fend off, well placed fenders and the fact that my slip is lined with vinyl bumpers works very well....

 

[tiempo2010]

Jody
Do you want the rail at deck level or below it a few inches?

 

[schroath]

Probably below a few inches, in part because of the shape of the hull.
Although if I put them at the widest part, I think they'd end up about
midway. So rub rails that stick out a bit would seem to the the answer?

I am considering them because I single-hand rather a lot and so seem
to join up with things more than I would prefer. So the prospect of
doing it with the rub rail rather than the hull seems a happier
outcome. Pier poles seem to be my worst enemy.