modifying the ladder

LordNelson · Aug 18, 2009

old sailors never tempt fate by saying something like "i can't imagine it will be too complicated".

if have scene transom ladders which sold the steps as an option. i think i would try to find a one that would fit the size tubing on my ladder.

JBD010457 · Aug 19, 2009

OdayDave said:
My wife and kids complain that the ladder is uncomfortable on the feet when climbing out of the water, so I want to add little wooden or Starboard pieces to make it more comfortable. I actually used some pipewrap for a while, but I want a more permanent solution. If anyone has done this, could you please post some pictures? I've got some ideas, but why re-invent the wheel when there are good designs already out there. I can't imagine it will be too complicated.

Thanks,

Dave
O'Day 222

Hi Dave,
I do not have pics, but the vice comm from our boat club covered his rungs with PVC half pipe. He mounted the pipe to a 1x to run thru the table saw to get a consistent cut, cut to length, and rounded off the ends and edges. I thought the finish might be too slick when wet, but the lack of grooves make it easier on the feet, and no maintenance. Anyway, another option
Jim

Joe11688 · Aug 20, 2009

Dave,
If I was going to design a swim ladder for my boat, I'd have two stainless steel straps welded to each rung and I'd screw my 1X2 1/2" Teak to them. I'd have it so that the steps don't interfere with each other when the ladder is up. Each wood step would protrude the vertical pipes a little and would be slightly rounded at each end. I'd really need to look at mine a little closer to see if a mod like that would work. I tried using my steps yesterday without my wet shoes and it's really tough on the feet. The wet shoes help to make it a little more bearable on my feet though.
Joe

roadstarmedic · Aug 21, 2009

For a cheap and temporary solution you can get a hollow swim noodle and cut it width wise to fit your step on the ladder then slice it horizontally and place it on the step. Then it can be secured with a conduit tie.
They did that in the pool at the condo I live at and it works well.

Joe11688 · Aug 21, 2009

roadstarmedic said:
For a cheap and temporary solution you can get a hollow swim noodle and cut it width wise to fit your step on the ladder then slice it horizontally and place it on the step. Then it can be secured with a conduit tie.
They did that in the pool at the condo I live at and it works well.

Great suggestion! I think that I'll try that myself. Thanks for the tip.
Joe

Steve Morris · Aug 21, 2009

Sole Mate Ladder Treads

West Marine offers Sold Mate Ladder Treads which are plastic treads that bolt to 1" round ladder steps. They cost $15.99 each.

Joe11688 · Aug 21, 2009

Steve Morris said:
West Marine offers Sold Mate Ladder Treads which are plastic treads that bolt to 1" round ladder steps. They cost $15.99 each.

Really! I'll have to check that out and find a store on the web cheaper than "Worst Marine." Thanks Steve.
Joe