Bow rail hinge question

[SouthFork]

I’m going to hinge my bow rail for my TM. My question for everyone that has done it is how did you fasten the parts to the rail? Did you use the little allen wrench set screws that came with the parts or drill it all the way through the rail and other side of the hinge and use a bolt?

 

[DennisG01]

While I haven't used that specific fitting, I've done plenty of rail fittings using the set screws and it's basically the same thing. It's not uncommon for OEM to build bow rails that way, either.

 

[Oceanbean]

• Posted this back on Jun 11, 2015

Hi all,

Thought I would pass along this little modification. Most dockages are bow in. Stepping over rail is an issue.
Added two hinges to the bowrail. Got them from Rail Makers in Costa Mesa CA. Very simple install. Cut rail with a SS pipe cutter, install hinges (tighten set-screw), put cut rail in, tighten set screws. Looks factory. Works great. Drops rail about 8", enough to help getting over. I'll see how this works. If I want to drop more, I will increase the drop section size. Total cost: $70. No compromise of the bowrail lateral stability.
Boat is 2004 GW Sailfish. Link to pictures: https://goo.gl/photos/L8129JnxepndKFdU9

Oceanbean
2004 GW 282