Swim PLatform Design Loading

[LADYBUG TOO]

What is the design loading for the R-29 Swim Platform. We have had four adults on the platform and it seems to be capable of a much heavier load. To be on the safe side it would be appreciated if the design load could be provided.

Pat
Ladybug, Too

 

[Irish Mist]

Great question

 

[Andrew Custis]

Hello Pat,

We actually don't post a load on the platform. I would say keep it to 3 adults or less. I can tell you I've had many more at a boat show but not recommended.

Good questions.

 

[LADYBUG TOO]

Andrew,

Thanks for the info. I am a retired civil engineer and I would not post a specific load either. When a bridge falls the civil engineer goes to jail, when an airplane crashes, it is pilot error. I did some rudimentary analysis and I am impressed with the numbers which, of course, I won't share. It ultimately comes down to the shear strength of some of the fasteners as I think the compressive strength of the struts is greater than the shear strength of the fasteners. It is a good design but ought not be abused with excessive loading. Two is company, three is a crowd and the heck with four on there at one time.

Pat
Ladybug, Too

 

[TonyM]

Here is a little something to watch for on your swim platform especially if you live in the water all the time:

As a semi-annual inspection, I check the platform support bracket bolts.
After my first two years in the water I found that electrolysis had significantly weakened three of the four lower bolts that are below the waterline.
I have since added a zinc to each support.

 

[The Masons]

Good to know about the electrolysis issue. I'll get some small zincs like the kind that go on prop shafts and use them.