Ranger 27 OB Stern Flag Holder

[Oh Well]

Being a new owner I got frustrated with the need for an allen wrench to be able to take the stern flag pole off the holder. Yes I know I can leave the pole in and simply unhook the flag. Problem is the pole tended to get in the way, at least for me, given the outboard.

Thought you might have the same frustration but my solution was with Macmaster Carr. Purchased 1/4" 28 fine 3/4" long stainless steel Knurled Head Thumb Screws. Part number 99607A241. Need 2 bought spare, just in case. Finger tight seems to work fine. BTW probably could have gotten away with 1/2" length vs 3/4"

Oh Well !!

Happy 4th of July

 

[lproulx]

Timely topic for July 4th. Funny coincidence - I just attacked the same problem with my R21. I first just changed to a regular bolt, which you can at least tighten a little bit by hand. I have ordered a thumbscrew from McMaster-Carr. Funny thing about them - they don't tell you the shipping cost anywhere during the ordering process.

A couple of refinements: You can make use of the excess length. Get an electrical ring terminal that will fit over the 1/4 inch bolt and trap it between the head of the thumbscrew and a nut run almost up to the head, just loose enough so the bolt can turn freely in the terminal. Secure with glue or locktite. Run a piece of string through the uncrimped ring terminal and tie it to a nearby stanchion or something. Keeps from losing expensive thrumbscrew overboard. Terminal turns freely on bolt and doesn't tend to wind around it as you tighten or loosen it.

Also - If you are using a wood flag staff, position it where you like it, with the flag clips pointing aft, and tighten the thumscrew once a lot, like with pliers. It will mark the flagstaff. Take it home and drill a maybe 5/16 recess where the mark is. That way, when you put the staff in place, you don't have to really tighten the thumscrew much, jut make sure it runs into the recess.

Funny the silly things I can occupy myself with during the virus epidemic. The boat's got lots of clean air around it.

Larry

 

[Larry1030]

Great suggestion on the stern flag pole. Like you, I felt the pole was in the way when not in use but didn't want to get the wrenches out to remove. Will definitely get the thumb screws. On another matter I've had difficulties finding the correct size US Flag with brass grommets to fly from the Stern Pole. Any suggestions?

 

[Oh Well]

Sorry Larry don't remember size of flag. I took the pole to West Marine and matched it up with their inventory. There are just too many possible sizes

Oh Well