31S Custom Hard Top

[mvldyjoan]

Hello,
I am currently working with a yard in Florida to fabricate a custom hard top for my 2013 31S. I am using as an example the top seen in pics on this site of a 31S "Indian Summer" (wonder where this boat is now, I would love to pick their brain!). The planned top is somewhat more substantial than the factory tops, and my concern is the possible effects of the added weight to the back of the boat. Is there a guideline we should be going by in our planning?
Thanks
Greg Christopher
Ranger 31S "Lady Joan"

 

[Ralf H]

Hi Greg,

That's actually hard to say, since we don't know exactly what you are going to do. But one could use, as a rule of thumb, that whatever weight you know that you will add, simply take that away from your safe load. For example. If you were to add 400lbs, that would equate to between two and three adult persons. That might still be within the limit of what you normally might do, but you would need to keep that closely in mind whenever you load out for your next trip or invite any friends aboard. Also, do note that this weight would also be mounted noticeably higher than other items or even people, so keep that in mind. Perhaps think of it as having several crew members on the command bridge, permanently 😉

Cheers,

Ralf

 

[mvldyjoan]

Thanks. As we are a sedan, is there a weight limit or recommendation for maximum weight on the command bridge? That might give me an idea.