Latest mod to the enterprise - crossbar

Anyone with a Outcast SFC loves there is no crossbar.  We just dig that.  And as someone who came out of a WoodRiver tube, I've always kind of sneered at the Bar-types.

But being bar-free comes at a price - the stripping apron sags (unless you do the bungee mod) and the entire affair sort of seeps inward a bit when you sit down.... I can only imagine this stresses seams a bit and makes for generally a less stable ride - as when you kick the boat heaves and relaxes....

So tonight I fashioned a cross bar - this will add stability to my camera mount as well as keeping things tight.  

The Cast Mate system is 1" OD Aluminum.... so for about $6 each I bought a pair of 1" rail elbows, had an old shower curtain rod laying around that is, you guessed it - 1" OD, cut it to size and BAM.  

It only takes me about 5 minutes to assemble the Enterprise at the fishing site.  This will add maybe another minute or less.  

The land bound stability is noticeably better.  Can't wait to get it on the water soon to see how its sea-worthy stability improves.

Super excited to try this out.

-K

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That is a great idea right there can I ask does the bar pop on and off. I think you got something their buddy.

jeffcpr wrote:That is a great idea right there can I ask does the bar pop on and off.  I think you got something their buddy.

Couple of turns of a Hex Key and it pops out.

I transport / store the two Cast Mate rail systems assembled in a tub. The Rail elbow stays on the end and I just pop the bar. Easy peasy.



- K

Do you assymble this sitting in the tube or do need to step into the tube like the old doughnut style? I like it and see a measurement board in your future.

Thanks for sharing

Jerdon wrote:Do you assymble this sitting in the tube or do need to step into the tube like the old doughnut style? I like it and see a measurement board in your future.

Thanks for sharing

I'm sure I'll assemble on shore (or on the tail gate) when I put the rig together.  I launch in 6" of water... it'll make a nice grab bar to drag the thing out over the sand / grass / gravel / whatever.  

Stepping over the bar and having a seat won't be a problem.  If I can do it on land I can sure do it on the water.

- Ken

(PS:  Hawg Trough already in the house....  )