scars in my ABS hull!

[John Kivel]

OK, The streaks in my hull are not the only problems, my tie down strap has left pretty large scars where it cuts across the back of the hull. Anybody else have this problem??? I guess I will put sponges under the strap this year. John

 

[Mark15233]

Scars from tie down straps

Are the scars the result of damage while being towed, or while parked? Can you describe the scars? Are they actually in the hull or are they in the rub rail?I haven't experienced any damage from tie downs either in transit or while parked. I tighten my straps snug but not overly tight, and generally loosen the straps a bit when the trailer is parked. Perhaps you are tightening the straps too tight, or tying down in a way that allows the tensioner to rub against the hull while towing.Good luck solving this problem.

 

[Dan (JDC)]

Use towels

John, I had the same problem--sponges wore out though. I use towels...

 

[jking]

Horse blanket

I use SS straps from West marine. with a loop of line around each stern cleat, so that the metal hooks sit below the rub rails. I also use a thick, plain white felt horse blanket, under the loop and the strap, to keep the strap and lower hook from rubbing against the hull. If you cut slots in the felt, you can attach it to the cleat and to the tie down strap, to keep it in place. This seems to work well. I agreee that the straps should be loosened when not trailering.Hope this helps.