Supporting plastic boats

I have added a new addition to my pickup truck that allows me to easily load my PA into the bed. However, after a lot of years doing this and thinking about how these plastic boats are made, it dawns on me that supporting them crosswise may not be the best option. I'm thinking more and more that lengthwise support (rails or pipes) running the length of the boats are better for most plastic kayaks and boats. This would eliminate hogging keels on hot days or when boats are left tied snug for hours on end.

I'd be curious to know what Hobie engineers think about this type support system.

If form fitted or flexible to fit the keel shape... perfect. It distributes the load more evenly.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

Tubing or rope would do that. I'll fool around with some ideas.

We re-rigged our set ups with PVC pipe running lengthwise. They flex just enough to "lock in" along the tunnels supported by the scuppers. No more hull dents on hot days while on the trailer. This is the way to go for all plastic boats. I'll never support another one cross-wise.

I'll try to get some photos up towards the end of the week. This is the way to go. A real improvement. Plus, loading and unloading just got one heck of a lot easier and the boat automatically self centers itself.

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