Some new things

[frankc]

First off I got to say thanks to Dick @ Merritt Marine. He helped me figure out how to go about installing a windlass on my 215. We have two dealers out here in Ca. and both have told me that "these boats are not set up for a windlass and we cannot help you". Well Dick walked me thru it and as you can see the installation turned out excellent. We used 3/4" backing under the flat area behind the anchor locker. Very strong and smooth. The Lewmar "Profish" has a clutch for a quick free fall and lets me reset as many times as needed to fish right on top of the kind of structure we have out here. No more pulling... she's my new best freind! Anyways, I have been lurking on here for 6 months now getting all kinds of good ideas from you'all and thought I would share a few of mine with all you. Here are some picks of some of the other things I have done. Again thanks Dick, I almost got discuraged and gave up on the windlass thing. I am glad you took the time for my phone call.

I see there are a few so. ca. boys out here. Look me up if you go to the Johnson Marine tourney on the 22th.

[tylerderdan]

Frank the windlass looks killer. I have been toying with idea of putting one on also, but I really don't drop the hook much. It sure would be handy, and who knows, I might start using it more if I had it.

[rudderhinge]

Great job frankc, you just may have given me the courage and initiative to do the same on my boat. I drop the hook a lot while fishing the reefs and hard bottom in the Cape Fear area. I have a buddy that has a windless on his Dusky and I love it. Sure makes bottom fishing a lot easier. When im fishing with him I always tell him that I will get the anchor when its time to move. Good job man.
I also like the grab rail you installed at the swim platform. Now if I could only find a bag full of money. Thanks, Bob

[Tallmantwo]

Frank, I've been thinking about how to do it and you showed me how. Thanks a million. In your last picture, with the hand rail, what is that between the motor and the cup holder? Mel (Tallmantwo)

[frankc]

Mel, are you talking about the chrome plated rod holder? its just a cheap one. I only use them for rigging rods. Not strong enough for trolling. Another spot to put more rods.

[Tallmantwo]

Oh, I took another look, I see it is the back of your captians chair. I thought it was hooked ot the rod holder. Thanks for the reply. Somethimes my brain is not in gear with my eyes.

[OspreyVic]

Frankc, can you tell us where we can obtain that hand rail you installed?

Showed picture to wife and she said to install one like it. With the 3 screws on each side, looks like she will stay in place.

[frankc]

Hey Vic I got this one at a Johnson Marine. Its the 18" unit. 951.986.1189. Keeps us from tearing up the backrest.

[OspreyVic]

Frank, thanks for the information. Would you happen to know who made it? Would prefer to buy locally if possible, and we are on opposite coasts of this GREAT country.

I did e-mail Johnson Marine and ask them about a price including shipping.

[Mike in Maine]

Frank/Vic does Johnson have a web site? I'd like to get the grab rail for the swim platform. How is it attached? And what is it made of?

Thanks, M I M