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I just boat my new to me boston whaler. I'm trailering my boat so I have a major concern. Yesterday, while cranking the boat on the trailer, I noticed that the tension on the cable became really tight on the winch. I got pretty worried that the bow eye would snap off and kill me. Is this a major concern? The bow eye does wiggle a bit too. How safe is this??
While I have had the hook on the winch strap break and come flying at me I have never had a whaler bow eye pull out. Trust me it would take a lot to pull the bow eye out as it is thru bolted to the inside of the hull. We towed our Montauk behind our Cruiser at speeds around 25mph from the bow eye for hundreds of miles. If the bow eye would have even let go it would have been then.
The lifting eye or anchor locker eye in the bow area of all whalers is the backing of the bow eye. Most of the whaler bow eyes have a tendency to wiggle a bit just make sure it is caulked good.
BTW, After the strap hook broke I have always stand outside the line of fire of the winch when cranking up the boat. Live and Learn.
Edited by Jeff on 05/09/07 - 7:32 AM
1993 23' Walkaround Whaler Drive
It is my understanding that the bow eye and the 2 stern eyes are also the lifting eyes on the inside of the hull. Consider the weight of a boat with the engine and gear. Correct me if I am wrong (I have never lifted my boats using them) but if indeed they can be used to lift a whaler out of the water with all it's gear then I wouldnt worry about the eye. I do know that these boats are built tough!
Peace of Mind... The eyes and threaded rod inbetween should be checked periodically ... normal maintenance. If they are in good condition I wouldnt worry about them breaking. If you are uncomfortable about their condition, replace them.
As for safety... I work part time for a major airline on the ramp. When we disconnect after pushing back an airplane we always follow procedure and then some. Create your own procedure in any situation that you think could result in a freak accident. Never take for granted anything, pay attention, and take your time. Standing to the side is good advice.
