Thanks, how much does it cost and what kind of tools does that require? What is the easiest way to install an inspection port? I know that it is always good to have one, but where is the most beneficial spot to have one, centered, or off to one side, between the daggerboard slot and the front of the cockpit?To my knowledge, you do need a port to insert the back up plate for the forward attachment point(s) of the strap.
I had a '79 fish and did just that. I am not a handyman or used to working on boats. But this job was relatively easy. An additional benefit is that a port allows one to check for leaks, remove condensation, etc.
Thanks, how much does it cost and what kind of tools does that require? What is the easiest way to install an inspection port? I know that it is always good to have one, but where is the most beneficial spot to have one, centered, or off to one side, between the daggerboard slot and the front of the cockpit?To my knowledge, you do need a port to insert the back up plate for the forward attachment point(s) of the strap.
I had a '79 fish and did just that. I am not a handyman or used to working on boats. But this job was relatively easy. An additional benefit is that a port allows one to check for leaks, remove condensation, etc.
Most of the inspection ports I have heard of are located behind the splash guard and ahead of the daggerboard trunk. However I don't know if you can reach the hiking strap backup plate from there.Thanks, how much does it cost and what kind of tools does that require? What is the easiest way to install an inspection port? I know that it is always good to have one, but where is the most beneficial spot to have one, centered, or off to one side, between the daggerboard slot and the front of the cockpit?
Annapolis Performance Sailing sells a Hiking Strap Retro Kit. This is from the website:Thanks, how much does it cost and what kind of tools does that require? What is the easiest way to install an inspection port? I know that it is always good to have one, but where is the most beneficial spot to have one, centered, or off to one side, between the daggerboard slot and the front of the cockpit?
Yea, I ordered that hiking strap kit because it said "instructions were included". I don't know what happened but there were no instructions provided to me. I think I know what to do on my own. Won't know until June when I try to install the hiking strap.Annapolis Performance Sailing sells a Hiking Strap Retro Kit. This is from the website:
Don't have a hiking strap on your Sunfish?
If you're looking to install a simple system on your recreational boat, this is the perfect kit. The kit includes a black webbing hiking strap, mounting plate, eyestrap, screws and tie down line -- everything that you're going to need.
Most importantly -- instructions are included as well.
V79512 Hiking Strap Retrofit Kit $27.95
PS: You would still need to buy a port.
Regarding the location of the port, I put mine right in front of the daggerboard slot. You need to be able to reach the front of the cubby to install the mounting plate.
It would be stressed, fer sure."...Not sure of just a single layer of glass would be thick enough for it to work..."
There's a toggle made of stainless steel (among others) on this page:I have the same issue. Would like to attach a hiking strap but not an inspection port. Has anyone tried the method described above and did it work out?
Set it up like David Loring does - with an adjustable knot system at the aft end....Its not long enough for a star fish. I will have to tie it on one end.