down rigger install

ttles714

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going to install 2 Downriggers on Grady Marlin 300. Before I start drilling, !! I would like to get some input on the location.... Should the mounting plates be installed forward or aft of the aft gunnel mounted rod holders ? I also have the option of a pedistal mount which mounts the downrigger into the rod holder. ??? the down rigger has a dual pole holder, but I question the strength of these as the base and holders are plastic or some type of composite. Downriggers are Scotty Propack 1116 electric.

thanks
 

yankeecause

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I have 2 Big Johns on my Gulfstream mounted aft of the back rod holders. I don't think that the factory rod holders are strong enough to support a down rigger in a gimbal mount. Check clearance under the gunnel for your backing plate before drilling. Joe.
 

Fishtales

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Hi,
With the euro transom, doesn't make sense to me to have them on the transom - I know duh - had to say it. It is the best location on a boat like the Gulfstream.
I would consider them on the gunnels aft of the aft rod holer. I think you are ok on the port. On the starboard there is a breaker for the shore power I beleive. You need to have enough room. There is room further down, but the outriggers won't be in the same place (not a big deal to me) unless you move and rewire the breaker.

I had a pair of Scotty 30" manual strong arms on a boat. I used the square swivel mounts that allow you to remove the outrigger and all that is left is a smooth mounting plate. As stated, I would not use the gimbal mounts - maybe if I had transom rod holders as the stress would be on the body of the rod holder not the pin.

You most likely will be placing the arms perpendicular to beam and there will be stress on the pin inside the gunnel rod holder. Take a look at the pins in the rod holders - not very strong and not made for this application in my opinion. The other consideration is that you don't have to use the rodholder on the downrigger - you can use the rod holder in the gunnel right next to it.

I would use all SS mounting hardware and those black or white phenolic washers above and below all washers. use SS nuts with nylon locks as well - maybe 2 on each bolt. Use a PT 1/2" plywood or an aluminum backing plate so you have something to support the under gunnel mounting points. Seal the hole insides as well as all mount points with 4200.
 

JTRCNC

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ttles714

Did you drill yet?
No drill rigger bases.
Billet Aluminum
My grady has rigger custom bases that mount in place of the aft rod holders. Also have neoprene spacer for a "no mar" fit.
 

bhemi

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Aft of the rodholders. On my Marlin I mounted them at "corner" of the gunnel and the transom. I use the rod holders on the downriggers. I double stack rods some of the time and havent had too many problems. I use a tie-bar steering set up and don't really like it. I'd rather have independant steering of the kicker either by an extension pole or remote control. If you're not in a hurry I could post a pic.