A frame on small rib, any advantage?

Red Fox · 13 October 2002, 22:33

I am considering a ribcraft 4.8 and was wondering about the need or use of an A bar. Could you give your opinion as to the benefit it would have please.
Thanks.

Ribald · 13 October 2002, 23:02

I have one on my Ribcraft 4.8- very good for the aerials, nav lights, flags and waterproof containers. Also handy to tie the mooring warps to. Good as a hand hold to climb into the boat when on the trailer. But the weight concerns me added to a Mariner 60 - I seem to have difficulty trimming the boat fore and aft.

Richard B · 13 October 2002, 23:56

Quote:

Originally posted by Red Fox
use of an A bar

Essential for bracing yourself against when having a a pee!

Alan · 14 October 2002, 09:05

As Ribald says, good for mounting stuff on but more weight at stern of boat which is already stern heavy. On RB4 Spirit ('nother 4.8m Ribcraft) had a single stainless pole mast about 1.5m high welded to the rear of two inline jockey seats. Navlight and VHF antennae on the top plus radar reflector fastened to pole.

A good arrangement but we went through 3 VHF antennae (before using a little whip as found at the top of most yot masts) and eventually the hole shebang fell over on the last leg. It had taken a hell of a pounding though, probaby more than you would (deliberately) put your boat through!

My other thought would be some sort of stainless hoop over the console, in front of the driver?

Cheers,
Alan