Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: RPS replacement handles
Posted by JohnnyCW on 07/27/10 - 4:11 PM
#1
The original chrome plated zinc handles on my RPS had been in poor condition the last couple of years. My Outrage gets used a lot and I'm not a fanatic about keeping it a garage queen but the handles actually started cracking at the bases enough to cause a scratch or even cut to a hand. I decided on Seachoice chrome plated brass transom handles (#37521) as replacements.
The Seachoice handles are slightly less bulky (thinner) than the original zinc handles and the original holes in the top of the seat back had to be elongated about 1/8" each to match the Seachoice handles. However I'm completely satisfied with them now that they're installed.
The replacement Seachoice handles look pretty darn good.
[img]http://www.whalercentral.com/images/ppimages/14917/RPS_handle01.jpg[/img]
The original chrome plated zinc handles have gotten to be in poor shape after nearly 20 years. Not only has the chrome finish cracked and peeled in places but the bases are actually cracked all the way through the base at two of the mounting holes.
[img]http://www.whalercentral.com/images/ppimages/14917/RPS_handle02.jpg[/img]
Posted by ioptfm on 07/27/10 - 6:11 PM
#2
Always nice to find alternative parts
Posted by JohnnyCW on 07/27/10 - 6:50 PM
#3
What are the factory cleats made of? My two stern cleats have a satin finish that looks like aluminum. My bow cleat is chrome plated. They're all still in great shape.
Posted by luckydog on 07/27/10 - 7:13 PM
#4
I replaced the handles on my 1985 Montauk RPS last summer. I used the Perco Part #1231 listed in this site. they were an exact match to the ones from 1985, didn't have to round out any holes.
Posted by JohnnyCW on 07/27/10 - 8:07 PM
#5
I considered the Perko handles but they're zinc as well. It was my preference to replace the original zinc parts with either stainless or chrome plated brass.
Posted by Blackduck on 07/28/10 - 6:55 AM
#6
Taco makes a stainless steel handle that is far superior to all, and more or less, a perfect match. You can get them at Defender Marine, about $20 each.
Posted by JohnnyCW on 07/28/10 - 11:50 AM
#7
I saw the Taco handles but I had the tempting convenience of having the Seachoice handles available locally. My lack of patience took me down the Seachoice road. Taco makes great products though and would have been my first choice if I'd have ordered handles.
The Seachoice handles really are a pretty close match. I doubt most Whaler aficionados would notice the difference without a side by side comparison to the originals.