Ranger - Do you screw/bolt in your front deck extension?

[Love The H20]

Hi –

I recently ordered a front deck extension for our 2004 Ranger Reata 180vs (directly from Ranger). The customer service guy from Ranger made reference to the fact that the extension gets screwed into place. However, if I drill into the fiberglass and screw/bolt it into place, it will obstruct the use of the center rod locker and of course, if I, or someone else doesn't want the deck extension in place, you will have holes in the fiberglass.
Does the front deck extension have to be screwed into place? I envisioned a piece that I could drop into place and it would fit snug.

I appreciate your feedback!

H20

[REW]

Love,
What will happen to the extension - if not fastened -and you get into a heavy blow, so you are running into 5 foot waves. Will the extension stay in place.

Don't say that hitting 5 foot waves will not happen to you. Maybe. But, if you are 10 miles off shore, and the wind picks up, who knows what you will encounter on the way back.

Whatever you do to your boat, and how you do it to your boat, keep the boat, yourself and your passengers safe at all times. You don't want any possibility of anything flying around hitting someone and injuring them.

Be safe
REW

[BNC04]

I was looking at the same item for the 2006 Reata 180vs and this is the picture Ranger sent to me when I inquired.

Looks to have hinges to all it to be lifted and then removed as well as a latch with the latch plate screwed down.



Brett

[Love The H20]

BNC -

Thanks for the picture!

The fact that the extension is hinged and can be easily lifted to access the rod locker makes a world of difference.

As you know, a front deck extension on a VS makes a huge difference in bow space, and in my opinion is worth the cost.

I still hate the fact that you have to drill into fiberglass, but it is what it is. I will drag the boat to the Ranger dealer and let them install it. Not worth the risk of screwing up (no pun intended).

Does anyone have a picture of their front deck extension installed?

Thanks!

H20

[BNC04]

Your Welcome. I actually pick my boat up today, but have been researching some items that I think I would want to add to it and this is one of them.

I'm anxious to get this boat home and get it on the water for the first time this weekend.

I'd love some pics on some things you have done or where you have mounted electronics etc?
What size Trolling motor shaft are you running? I'm going to be ordering a Terrova 80lb and converting from the 12V to the 24V system as well.

Thanks
Brett

[Love The H20]

We have only owned our boat for 2 years. We upgraded several things (locators/trolling motor/butt seats), but haven't done anything too out of the box. We have a 24v 80lb Terrova and love it! We went with the shorter shaft, 48", I think.

I am the type that believes in adding what you need and nothing more. I can share a few pictures once the boat comes home.

H20

[Love The H20]

Quick Question...

Has anyone used piano hinges to secure their front deck opposed to the two hinges that come with the extension?

I don't like the fact that the standard hinges sit above the deck (one could easily stub a toe, or trip over them). The downside is that it eliminates the ability to quickly remove the extension. However, I do not envision removing the front deck extension often (if ever).

I appreciate your input. I am leaning toward using piano hinges - basically identical to the compartments throughout the boat. A nice clean look and everything remains 100% functional.

I have an Ext on my 211 reata and it has the same lock as the rest of my storage lockers in the boat.