logistics questions for new swim ladder I was given

[BruceW]

The price was right, and it looks good.

However, it is expecting me to use 5/16 bolts that come from inside the boat, and screw into threaded holes in the ladder.

I take it I will have to measure the length fairly accurately to get the proper tightness via just the bolt.

Ideas? So far, I can think of drilling the holes, putting the backing material up, and sticking something through that is long enough, and marking it.  Or, I can get several lengths of bolts, and hope one is right. Seems like I just don't have the best plan yet.

Thanks in advance.

PS, I did find a couple of skinny kids who can help me with the motor mount and this job.

[Tom L.]

I would use threaded rod in the ladder longer than needed and mount it on the transom. Add backing plates and nuts tightened from the inside as needed.

Tom L.

[BruceW]

Smack! I coulda had a V-8!  such a good idea! Now, to figure out who has that. Wondering if it exists in galvanized or stainless.

Meanwhile, I found a bunch of galvanized  5/16 bolts in 3.5, 4, 5, 6 inch lengths, sold by the pound. So, I could get several sizes.

Thanks for great suggestion, Tom

[capt_nemo]

Threaded rod is available at Home Depot, Lowe's, and ACE Hardware stores, some of it stainless.

capt_nemo

[BruceW]

Cool, Capt N, thanks! I'll go out this afternoon and see what I can find.

[BruceW]

Located the 36" long threaded rod at Home Depot, and got some nylock nuts & thick washers to go along with it.

Yee-hah!

Now we'll see when I get to go to the boat and give it a whirl.