Deck mounted life-raft cradle

[Chmielar]

Dear All,

I'd assumed that it was going to be a standard and relatively straightforward task so I left a purchase of deck mounted life-raft cradle until the end of wintering season. I did not realised that there is no common standard and most of cradles are designed to be rail mounted in vertical position. On my Carter 30 there is little room at the stern so my only option is deck mounting on a coach-roof. Due to cost and other restrictions I have settled on Ocean Safety Standard 4-man raft (650 x 430 x 280). The Universal Ocean Safety cradle (RAF0750) looks OK but the mounting system with set of p-clips does not look seaworthy to me. Carters tend to get wet when it blows and we take our boat out in all sorts of conditions so I was looking for something reliable. I have done quite extensive on-line research and only mounting system that looks good is "Piplers Liferaft Cradle" but the cradle itself is too large for my canister.

Can you please advice on how did you deck mounted your rafts. Did you relay on standard solutions? Did you add washers/backing plates underneath to spread the load. What bolt size would you recommend? If appropriate, please provide some photos from your installation (goggle seem to be failing me in this respect).

I'm also puzzled about the straps. Some deck solutions imply drilling 4 more holes (!) for additional bracket. I'm not sure if this is necessary. Can I get the straps that will secure raft to the cradle only?

I live far away from my boat and decent chandlery shops so I tend to rely on photographs and descriptions before buying on-line. All your help, tips and advice in this matter would be very welcomed and much appreciated.

Best regards,
Pawel

 

[GrahamM376]

I had frame made, cost 150 euro. It has 2 x 50mm flat sections along its length which are bolted through the deck with large backing washers. The two straps are fixed to the frame at one side and to the hydrostatic release on the other. The release connects to a U bolt through deck.

 

[duncan99210]

I bought a mounting set that consisted of four pastic wedges which are fixed to the deck with self tappers. Straps with quick release buckles run from them to hold the raft in place. I also fitted a second three legged strap with a pelican quick release as extra security. Lightweight, cheap and still happily in place after five years wandering round the Med.

 

[Boat441]

Ours is mounted on two teak transversely mounted cradles; read two pieces of wood shaped to take life raft canister attached to the coach roof? Pad eyes port and stbd on each transvers allow lashing strop and hydrostatic release to be fitted.

I'll be on the boat this weekend if you would like a pic.