Trimming Bow Rails...

[1BadTitan]

I want to set my bow rail lower than it is now on my steplift. Would this be a matter of just trimming down the vertical pieces and reassembling? Anyone tried this?

[Destroyer]

Originally Posted by 1BadTitan

I want to set my bow rail lower than it is now on my steplift. Would this be a matter of just trimming down the vertical pieces and reassembling? Anyone tried this?

As long as your bow rails are not the welded type it shouldn't be a problem. I've never done it on a V, but I've done it on several other boats without a hitch. Remove stock equally from the bottom......Oh, by the way, rather than using a hacksaw, use a pipe cutter. Works really well and gives a nice even cut . Just remember, measure twice (or more) cut once.

[1BadTitan]

I have a pipe cutter, thanks for the tip. My only concern now is, will I be able to back those screws out.

[macojoe]

it has been done here before, as stated as long as its not welded you should be good to go!, I removed mine all together, wasn't of any use in my boating.

[scook]

Soak the screws with some good penetrating stuff and they should come out OK - if not Marine Part Depot has SS parts cheap. I just cut out the center part of my rail to accomodate a special kind of anchor system and it went pretty easy. Good suggestion about the pipe cutter.

[reelapeelin]

I wish I could remember, but somebody here did that...LOOKED GREAT!...The center section of the only rail I have is cut away, so I am considering doing the same shortening you are...I've cut two of these rails to date and used a pipe-cutter on each...have extra blades on hand if using one of the smaller, hardware store versions...I went thru about 3 blades on each bow rail...

On removing the rail, pre soak (for days) hex-nuts from underneath, unless you know yours are corrosion free, assume they are not...then clamp on a pair of vice-grips from underneath if yer doing alone...if the screw backs out from up top, you did good...if not, drill that puppy and move on...

[1BadTitan]

Thanks guys, I'll post some pics when its finished.

[rb437]

A picture from the gallery of a shortened bow rail...

http://www.wellcraftv20.com/gallery/album61/P3260084

[macojoe]

[reelapeelin]

Originally Posted by macojoe

That REELY looks great cut don like that!!...I had forgotten Franco's rail had been shortened...

Look close at the anchor stuck in the rod-holder just behind the top...That's the anchor that started the name "Norton Snagger" when I asked Franco if he ever snagged his Nortons on that anchor gettin' in/out of the boat!!...Ha ha ha...MJ, glad ya reposted those pics!!...I really miss Franco around here...