FW swim platform on a 258- need some help

bluebaron · **Posted:** Thu Apr 14, 2011 10:29 am

I just got my new swim platform for my 1999 FW 258! I shoped it around and ended up getting a great deal from winnisquammarine. It came in and I have no idea what screws to use in the "kit" to mount the platform to the top of the transom. All the (17) screws that came seem to be too short. Can anyone send me detailed pictures? I asked and the factory just sent a parts list that is useless. I think I might go out and buy 6 1/2" longer screws. Pictures/help anyone?

Paul I. · **Posted:** Thu Apr 14, 2011 1:59 pm

Hi

I am getting my new 2007 V258 tomorrow, I can look for you. Not the same year, but I do not see anyone else responding to you!! BUT, all the boats I have owned, the platform was bolted on. I would be surprised if is was screwed on, because of the wight it needs to support. Anyways, if it was me, I think I would use bolts.

Cap'n Morgan · **Posted:** Thu Apr 14, 2011 2:35 pm

There was a detailed thread of how to install the ESP. But the link is now removed. It's a shame, as it detailed every step for the installation.
Here is how it should look when installed at least.

Here is one link discussing the install. Several people (if they are still here) added one to their 258's.
viewtopic.php?f=22&t=138&st=0&sk=t&sd=a

bluebaron · **Posted:** Thu Apr 14, 2011 3:13 pm

Thanks. I just got back from the hardware store with ss bolts, nuts, and washers. When I get done everything will be ss bolts with the exception of the supports to the bottom of the platform. I tried to get to that thread. I would have liked to see it.

Paul I. · **Posted:** Thu Apr 14, 2011 3:32 pm

OH, don't forget to run a wire to the bonding strip for ever support that is in the water.

GOOD LUCK with it!!

taz42169 · **Posted:** Thu Apr 14, 2011 4:53 pm

You may also want to add pieces of wood (pressure treated and painted) to disperse the weight evenly and not just where the bolts are thru the transom. Wouldn't be good if a big guy with a wet vest pulled the bolts thru the fiberglass.

Cap'n Morgan · **Posted:** Thu Apr 14, 2011 6:33 pm

You probably found this thread, it is where the "broken link" is. Some good info in it about installing an ESP on similar FW boats. Maybe it will help some.

viewtopic.php?f=6&t=239&start=0&st=0&sk=t&sd=a

acguy · **Posted:** Thu Apr 14, 2011 8:02 pm

I put one on my 97 225 Sundowner a few years ago. If you send me pics of the hardware I might be able to give you some help. I had the same problem when I put mine on.

bluebaron · **Posted:** Fri Apr 15, 2011 1:25 pm

Ok, I got the thing mounted last night. I didn't get to the supports yet, but I got the top bolts in.
I bought (6) SS 1/4-20 bolts 3" long with pan head phillips, sstrim washers, ssfender washers, and ssnylock nuts. We layed out the holes evenly 1-3/4" from the edge so we were close to the core but not in the core (as detailed on "directions"). Had a beer and then drilled all the holes after I checked in the engine bay too see what we would hit.
We took the ESP and set it into place and drilled down thru the existing platform slipping two bolts down thru to hold the ESP in place while we drilled the rest.
We then took off the ESP and used a small brad to apply the 5200 in the hole to coat the shaft of the holes thru the existing platform. We then made a small pile of 5200 on top of the holes.
Next we set the ESP back on top and bolted up. Trim washers on the head on the ESP and fender washers and nylock nuts on the inside (standing on my head).
The next step (hopefuly Sunday) I can install the supports from the bottom of the ESP to the transom.
Right or wrong, I started in the project. Scary that I am drilling into a ESP that cost more than any car I had in my 20's.
Thanks for the Pics Capn thats exactly the one.
taz42169- The supports attach to the underside of the ESP. At that spot there is a large cored area to support the wet fat guy. We went thru it last night over a few beers and didn't see any weak spots at attachment. We think alike.
Anybody got any pointers or good pictures on the supports? Looks like there is a left hand and right hand support, meaning they kick out.
-blue baron

Cap'n Morgan · **Posted:** Fri Apr 15, 2011 4:24 pm

Not the best pictures, but might help a little ?

1999 258 Vista ESP supports to the platform

248 Vista ESP supports

2004 268 Vista ESP supports.

taz42169 · **Posted:** Sat Apr 16, 2011 5:34 am

Good luck Blue....the beers always calm the nerves when you start drilling! LOL

Next project will be swim platform led lights. I think they are really sharp.

www.iFourWinns.com

FW swim platform on a 258- need some help

Who is online