Stern Rail

[Joel]

I have a 1987 H23 (wing keel) which does not have a stern rail. Pictures in the photo forum show some older H23 with the stern rail, some without.Was this an option from Hunter? I can see the advantages of having a stern rail installed. Any know disadvantages of adding one to an H23? Any known sources for the rail?Thanks/

 

[Bob Zanowicz]

I bought a 1987 23 last October and Ihave the same question. I think there might be some info in the archives. I did see one aftermarket, albeit genericstern rail in the defender catalog. Youcan check it out at www.defender.com Youwould have to see if it would fit the Hunter 23's dimensions. My boat is still in winter storage and hopefully next weekend, it will be back in my driveway. Then I can check the dimensions. In the meantime, let me know what you find out.Bob

 

[Joel]

Stern Rail - Hunter Response

I asked Hunter Marine what their recommendations were for adding a stern rail to older H23s. Here is their response.There is no technical reason not to install stern rails on the older Hunter23. We do not have any specs on rails that would fit the 23 so you wouldhave to have them custom made. The engineering concern is this, the feetmust be through-bolted and the laminate where the feet attach should bebeefed up with extra fiberglass. We would also recommend that a backingplate be used to through bolt through and as you have already mentioned,don't add seats.

 

[Gordon Meek]

MY EXPERIENCE

In 1996, I bought a stern rail from SOUTHCOAST MARINE PRODUCTS, INC (813-573-4821). It cost $206.00 plus shipping which wasn't too bad. Installation was not bad, but I did use my much thinner son to get under the cockpit. As someone suggested, I used backing plates for the bolts. One draw back to the stern rail is that one of the vertical posts interfers with pulling the starter rope for the outboard. I have to be careful I don't rap my knuckles. otherwise, it is great having the rail. I change my lifeline to meet the rail and added lifeline cushions.