bow pulpit add on

[Anonymous]

was thinking of adding a bow pulpit to my boat, found one from consumer marine liquidators for the right price, any draw backs or tips before going ahead with the purchase? Boat is a 1983 wac, 25ftr, will probably be starting a refurb this spring, paint, fiberglass work etc...Thanks in advance for any info,

[John Jones]

A friend just bought a pulpit from a liquidator place.  It is very flimsy.  I think his was made more for looks than use.  I would not trust his to anchor a 24' plus bracket boat in 3' seas.  I promise it will break off.

Make sure you get a well built pulpit.
I would have a metal backing plate as large as would fit underneath.  Use plenty of large bolts.  Mine has 6 bolts 5/16 dia.

[GoneFission]

Ditto for JJ's comment on quality of construction and mounting.  Also remember the pulpit adds a foot or so onto the overall length of the boat.  If you are doing mostly offshore use - it ain't no big thing.  But if you run in skinny water, around docks or pilings, or in creeks, you would be surprised what a difference an extra foot can make.  

Most folks hang an anchor off the pulpit, so you will also want a roller and stay for the anchor.  If you tow your boat on a trailer, consider the extra length on the trailer and make sure the anchor hanging down will not make contact with the tow vehicle - think about the tailgate/hatch being up!  

Hope this helps!

[John Jones]

The anchor makes a helluva headknocker  
I have the scars to prove it.

A pulpit also make for a PITA when docking under certain conditions.  If you are fighting a wind or current and need to go in bow first the damn thing always hangs on the dock, or under it.

[RickK]

Ditto on what JJ and GF said.

The anchor makes a helluva headknocker  
I have the scars to prove it.

Luckily I haven't experienced that yet

A pulpit also make for a PITA when docking under certain conditions.  If you are fighting a wind or current and need to go in bow first the damn thing always hangs on the dock, or under it.

Yup, happened more than once this weekend   .

[Anonymous]

thanks for the responses, yea on the thickness, and the anchor roller, gonna put an alum. or stainless backing plate under it. will post pix. when done. :)