Stern Eye Orientation Opinions

[CLM65]

Pretty soon I will be ready to install the stern eyes on my flatback.  I can't decide if I should mount them straight up and down or angled out or angled in.  Any opinions or reasons for mounting them one way or another?

[RickK]

I mounted mine straight up and down like they were initially.  Then after the fact, I wondered if I should have angled them, so it'll be interesting to hear what others say.
I figure the eyes are round stock so the ability to pull from any direction should be the same no matter the orientation.  I guess if you were always going to pull from one angle, like when strapping it down to your trailer from the rear eyes, then having the two parts of the eye in a straight line might be stronger but I don't think you should be strapping it down that tight.

[Woodeneye]

Depends on their purpose and type. If they are the u-bolt, bolt thru the transom type for the tie downs then they should be angled so they line up with the direction from which the load is coming. If they are for, say, donuting, mount them horizontally.

If they are the pad eye type (with 4 mounting bolts) its not as as critical but best practice would be to follow the same method.

[CLM65]

They are 1/2" u-bolt type, and will primarily be used for tie-downs while trailering.  On my 205 they are angled so that the bottom is slightly outboard of the top.  I've seen quite a few boats set up this way, and at least as many with them straight up and down.  I was thinking of angling them with the bottom inboard of the top, but I don't recall seeing any like that, and I'm wondering if there is a reason for that.

I don't have a trailer specifically for it yet, so I'm not sure where the tie downs will attach.  But if I put trim tabs on the boat, I assume I will need to attach them to or near the bunks.  Otherwise I can just use a gunnel strap and the sterns eyes will be more or less decorations.

[RickK]

If you hang the boat on davits I think the bottom being outboard of the top a bit makes sense.

[CLM65]

If you hang the boat on davits I think the bottom being outboard of the top a bit makes sense.

Good point Rick.  I imagine that would be the most sustained load it would see.  Not that I ever plan to hang it.