Fitting tow eyes

D4V33 · Today, 00:06

Hi all, I’m looking to fit a couple of towing eyes to my transom. I hope to never need to use them, but want them in place should any of the other SIB’s I’m out with get into engine trouble and need a slow tow to shore.

I’ve fitted them to all my previous fibreglass boats in the past, but this boat being a SIB, it’s got me wondering if there are any concerns regarding the positioning of them.

Is there a preferred position?
Will a higher or lower position comprise performance or stability while towing?
Or is there any risk of damage to the transom or where it attaches to the sponsons due to positioning?

Probably daft questions, but never even crossed my mind with my past heavy boats, plus having transom wheels on the back doesn’t leave much space.

Cheers
Dave

chipko · Today, 01:01

We’ve fitted towing eyes to all our sibs over the years, regularly towed kneeboards, wakeboards, toys etc and never had a problem with even the thinnest of transoms.

My preference would be to fit them high and wide. We use 10mm ss eye bolts but 8mm eyes would also suffice as would U - bolts. Would recommend fitting large penny washers and sealing holes with marine sealant.

We also use a bridle as regular towers, but for the occasional rescue tow then probably not essential although it will ease stress on the transom by distributing load equally.

PS: Nice transom wheels by the way. Are they per chance the Boatworld Seamax copies?

D4V33 · Today, 01:37

Cheers for your reply chipko.
Yes the wheels are from boatworld. They seem fine so far, although I did have to file the height selection holes slightly. They where quite a neat fit, making them a bit of a faff trying to set them on the water when getting back to shore.

It’s a couple of stainless m10 eye bolts I plan to fit with nice thick penny washers on the inside. I already keep a bridle on the boat incase I ever need towed myself, so would use that.

I’m not sure I’ll be able to put them to the outside of the wheels though, as I’d be drilling through the pvc that’s bonded to the transom. Will have a better look tomorrow.