Z-5 Cargo rack take down

[GCSuper]

In our search for a new boat, ( 08 210 ) the tower has become the driving force. We possibly have height issues on the dock, so if I have to take down the tower down each time we dock, this changes everything. Now we're looking at 09 210's with the FCT 3. I like a big low bimini, so with that tower, a Z-5 would be the way to go. So, my question is: can one person take the rack down ? And, can the rack be partially un pinned to lower the tower ?

Thanks

[boatbuddy]

We have the FCT3 with the Z5 rack

The tower can be dropped easily by one person but not with the Z5 on it

Removing the Z5 is not difficult but I have never tried with one person

Maybe someone else can comment about the effort required.

I will be at our boat later today and can try and report back

[NautiqueJeff]

I take my Z5 down by myself without problems.

[DJH]

I've managed my Z5 by myself - It's not particulary heavy but is a bit awkward... it seems to get bigger when it's not on the boat!

[GCSuper]

I take my Z5 down by myself without problems.

Thanks Jeff. That's what I needed to know. Won't have to do it often by myself, but if the situation arises, or that's what it's going to take to fit in the dock, it could be a deal breaker it it's not doable for one person. Looked at an 09 210 with the Z5 and absolutely loved it. More coverage that most biminis and low enough for many hours of sun protection.

[robertsmcfarland]

you can also take either end off and lay the tower down . it will not lay at it's lowest level but might suit your needs with out removing the whole rack. you will be glad you got the z-5.

[boatbuddy]

I had to lower my tower today when I visited to the boat since I had to raise our lift due to the high water level

To my surprice I found that I could lower the tower without removing the Z5

I released the back of the Z5 to let it swivel and gained 12" of tower clearance

However the Z5 frame was resting on the Windshield which is not ideal .... but the Tower weight was not significant and I do not think would have any detrimental affect on the windsheild frame (although I am sure Nautique would not recommend this)

To resolve the windshield issue I supported the tower on each side of the boat with a block of wood wrapped in a towel as a short term solution

I am sure you could come up with a better longterm solution than the block of wood idea that would suit the layout of the boat