Composite Platform lifting

[OZDreamer]

I have a 2003 216 with a composite swim platform that I have to put on and remove each time we use the boat, due to size of storage shed. I am thinking of either modifying the brackets so the platform swings down without having to be removed or setting up a pulley system in the shed roof to make the lifting process easier. It’s just me and my 11 years old daughter lifting it at the moment so I need to find a better way.

I am interested in seeing photos of any modified ‘hinged’ brackets people might have done or any other solutions/ideas people might have.

Thanks

[xrichard]

I installed this:

http://www.amazon.com/Harken-Hoister...ds=harken+lift

I back my boat most of the way in, lift off the platform, then back it the rest of the way. A fold-down platform would be better, but fabricating the brackets is beyond my skill set. The Harken setup is easy and relatively cheap, but takes a few extra minutes.

[DanielC]

Put a little grease on the pins the platform bracket slide on, and it comes off much easier. It is then pretty easy to handle a composite platform for a 216.

[gride]

i'm fairly sure the new boats have folding platforms. maybe you could retrofit the brackets they use.

[SkiTower]

the new brackets are SWEET! Still don't have an answer on retrofitting, though.

[NCH2oSki]

I'm told the teak platform is lighter, but don't by how much. I'm in the same boat as you, and remove my every time it goes into the garage. Mine's teak and its still not the easiest thing to do.

[OZDreamer]

Thanks for the replies. I will set up a hoist system for now. In a few months when we hit winter I look at doing something with the brackets. I haven't seen any of the new hinged ones so if anyone has pics I'd appreciate it if you cold post them.

[SkiTower]

you would really need to see them in action, so a good video is better. One other idea I had is to modify a motorcycle lift used fo sork on them. Something to get under it and push up, then to be on wheels to move it. I go in nose first so the door is in the way of a pulley system.

[sodbuster88]

Thanks for the replies. I will set up a hoist system for now. In a few months when we hit winter I look at doing something with the brackets. I haven't seen any of the new hinged ones so if anyone has pics I'd appreciate it if you cold post them.

I just priced a set. Must be gold-plated at $925. This price is for a pair of brackets to replace the stationary pair on 2010 and up 200 DD and 200 V.

[gride]

great googly moogly! i'd just live with taking it off by hand.just change your thinking to, "at least i can put her inside."