StarsMan
Veteran Member
- Joined
- May 12, 2016
- Messages
- 85
- Location
- USA
- Vessel Name
- Sea Star
- Vessel Make
- Cruisers Yachts SS 5000
Ok, I have searched by just about every keyword I can think of and I can't find the answer to this.
We currently have a 24" swim platform mounted to L brackets through bolted through the transom with backing plates. There are three brackets currently with 45 degree angle supports. I guess that technically is a triangle bracket. With a total length of about 14 feet these seems like a large span between brackets to me. So at a minimum I would plan to add two more.
Anyway, we are looking to replace the swim platform in the near future and are considering a wider one. Something around 36". My question is, how do you determine the structural strength of the transom to support the moment forces of the extra length. As I said, I would add two more brackets but that is more for support of the platform span, it doesn't necessary add support for the moment forces on the transom connection points.
Is there a way to determine the structural capacity of the transom based on glass thickness? This appears to be a solid layed up glass transom integral to the hull so I don't believe there is any core material. Would additional reinforcement pads at the bracket connection points add strength or would the entire transom width need thickening?
Or is the current thickness (unknown at this time) as it came from the factory sufficient?
Any input is much appreciated. The Internet is full of swim platform add on kits and gives information on load capacity of the platform but I couldn't find any resource that discussed the transom load capacity.
Thanks,
David
We currently have a 24" swim platform mounted to L brackets through bolted through the transom with backing plates. There are three brackets currently with 45 degree angle supports. I guess that technically is a triangle bracket. With a total length of about 14 feet these seems like a large span between brackets to me. So at a minimum I would plan to add two more.
Anyway, we are looking to replace the swim platform in the near future and are considering a wider one. Something around 36". My question is, how do you determine the structural strength of the transom to support the moment forces of the extra length. As I said, I would add two more brackets but that is more for support of the platform span, it doesn't necessary add support for the moment forces on the transom connection points.
Is there a way to determine the structural capacity of the transom based on glass thickness? This appears to be a solid layed up glass transom integral to the hull so I don't believe there is any core material. Would additional reinforcement pads at the bracket connection points add strength or would the entire transom width need thickening?
Or is the current thickness (unknown at this time) as it came from the factory sufficient?
Any input is much appreciated. The Internet is full of swim platform add on kits and gives information on load capacity of the platform but I couldn't find any resource that discussed the transom load capacity.
Thanks,
David