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Boats

Pontoon Boat Seats

December 9, 2011 by AutoStaff


There are several styles of pontoon boat seats to choose from. Bench seats are generally the most popular. They are available individually or in packages. An example of a typical package might include two arm rests, one pedestal, one bucket (captain’s) seat, one captain’s stand, and four lounge seats.

You can buy bench seating in numerous sizes. Sizes range from 28 inches to 55 inches. Corner bench seats, measuring at 28 inches by 28 inches, are standard as well. Popular color combinations include dark blue and charcoal, ivory and dark blue, ivory and burgundy, and ivory and green.

pontoon boat seats
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Boat seat arms are sold separately. They are suitable for either (or both) sides of the bench and feature convenient drink holders, so thirst is never a problem. Flip-flop seats are swing-back seats that generally have 2 position back rests and an ample storage space underneath each cushion.

Manufacturers such as Overton’s offer a premium seating option. These seats are similar to other high-end styles, except they are typically deeper for additional leg support and have higher backs that provide more comfort.

Jump seats are appropriate for numerous types of watercraft, including pontoons. These one-person seats feature underneath storage that is great for storing a wide variety of necessities. As of this writing, prices range from roughly $70 to $100. (Note: A jump seat must be placed against a stationary object such as the back of a pontoon bench seat. It is not a free-standing seat.)

Folding pontoon seats are a more affordable option. Popular colors are tan or gray. As of December 2011, the average cost of each seat is under $100. They are constructed of heavy-duty foam and vinyl that with normal use won’t tear or rot.

The majority of these chairs come with molded drain channels, which allow water to easily drain off the deck. This feature goes a long way in extending the life of the boat floor. The frames of the chairs are reinforced, so they don’t absorb water. To protect your investment, always consider the additional purchase of a cover for each of your pontoon boat seats. The heavy vinyl covers are very affordable and are made to last for several years.

One of the benefits of owning a pontoon is the fact that you have the ability to customize the seating arrangements, on your boat, if you choose to do so. With so many options, it has never been easier to maintain the boat of your dreams.

Filed Under: Boats

Glass & Plexiglass Boat Windshields

November 27, 2011 by AutoStaff


Boats are considered one of the finer things in life, so once you have a boat, it’s important to protect it and keep it running its best. The materials that a boat is made out of can help it last longer. The windshield of a boat can make your boating experience a complete disaster or completely beautiful. Boat windshields are also created to protect you from harm as you spend an afternoon boating. Windshields are also used to protect rescue crews, the United States Navy, and also different fishing boats. There are specific details you should understand about the glass or plexiglass boat windshields you intend to use.

Plexiglass Boat Windshields

Plexiglass windshields are one of the most popular types of windshields for boats. The popularity is derived from the flexibility of the plexiglass material. Boat owners like the look of a curved windshield because it tends to look more stylish. A curved plexiglass boat windshield can also protect boaters from potential harm in the water. One negative of this type of windshield is that it can distort your vision while operating the boat. The plexiglass material has been known to alter vision if the plexiglass is curved but not when it is flat.

A plexiglass windshield is also more feasible for those who own smaller boats. Smaller boats are more popular for fishing and swamp-like environments. Plexiglass windshields withstand harsher temperatures and boating conditions. Depending on the type of boating you do, this can help determine what kind of material you prefer for your windshield.

Glass Boat Windshields

Glass is perhaps the most common material used to make boat windshields. However, they are most common in large boats. Sporting boats are also known for their use of glass windshields. Glass can be designed to look any way you choose. Of course, the designer has the most say in the quality and design. However, if you’re willing to pay, then the designer is willing to deliver.

Thermal performance coating and tong-free glass are both elements that enhance the quality of glass windshields. Tong-free glass can almost guarantee that when you look out your windshield it will not be distorted. These types of enhancements are vital for the success of glass boat windshields. This is because glass is not always chosen for the most popular or safest material for boats. Harsh weather and rough conditions make it really easy for a glass windshield to explode or shatter.

Features of Glass & Plexiglass Boat Windshields

Depending on your preferences, you may find you prefer one type of windshield over the other. However, the kind of material you choose for your boating excursions is mostly dependent on  what your boat is used for. Even if you prefer one type of material over the other, your safety should always come first. It’s best to talk with a professional who can understand your situation. The windshield professional can tell you what type of windshield will work best for your boat. Recreational and excursion boats are found to most commonly use glass windshields. Sporting and fishing boats are found to most commonly use plexiglass windshields.  Most importantly, the choice is yours based on your preference for style and safety.

Filed Under: Boats Tagged With: plexiglass boat windshields

Types of Boat Trailer Fenders

November 12, 2011 by AutoStaff

There are basically three types of trailer fenders for boats. Boat trailer fenders mainly come in steel, plastic, and aluminum. The purpose of the fender is to offset road spray such as rocks, sand, mud, liquids, and other objects that may cause harm to the trailer itself or the boat it is transporting. Trailer fenders also serve as a safety feature to keep people from being pulled under the trailer while the wheels are moving.

Steel Trailer Fenders

boat trailer fenders
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Steel boat trailer fenders are traditional rounded fenders made from corrosion-resistant, sixteen gauge galvanized steel. These fenders are probably the most versatile when it comes to aesthetics. Steel fenders can be left plain as when purchased, or they can be painted to match the trailer, the boat, the vehicle doing the towing, or all three depending on the owner’s taste and preferences. Occasionally, a buyer can find polished stainless steel fenders; however, they do require a high amount of maintenance in order to continuously offer a highly polished and sleek look. Steel fenders range in price between $25 and $35 per fender and can be purchased through most marine retailers and online vendors.

Plastic Trailer Fenders

Plastic boat trailer fenders are created from a copolymer, high impact plastic designed to flex and bend and then retain its former shape. Plastic fenders are best for trailers that use tight fit marinas and launching platforms. These fenders are ideal for single axel, tandem axel, and triple axel trailers. Regrettably, plastic fenders are fairly limited in their color selection; the choices are quite literally black or white.  Plastic fenders usually average in price between $15 and $30 per fender depending on the manufacturer.

Aluminum Trailer Fenders

Aluminum boat trailer fenders are most commonly found in 14 gauge diamond-plated aluminum. Aluminum fenders are also designed with a corrosive resistant coating. The advantage of using aluminum fenders over steel is the fact they are lighter in weight, which creates a lighter payload for the towing vehicle.  Aluminum fenders can be painted with paints designed to coat aluminum surfaces, although keep in mind that painted aluminum requires extra effort to maintain a clean appearance while remaining free from scratches and nicks. Prices can range between $25 and $35 per aluminum fender.

Where to Buy

There are countless marinas and marine outlets across the country at which to purchase boat trailer fenders. If you don’t mind purchasing before physically seeing the product, there are also wide selections of websites online that sell fenders for boat trailers and offer quick delivery. Some manufacturers will even customize the fenders per a client’s desires for a more customized price and an extended delivery time.

Overall, most sailing hobbyist can replace or repair their trailer fenders at a reasonable price along with an easy availability. Remember, when purchasing new fenders to also buy the installation kit for that specific make, model, and type. As long as regular maintenance and need are considered when buying new boat trailer fenders, the new fenders should have a reasonably long life.

Filed Under: Boats Tagged With: boat trailer fenders, plastic fenders, steel fenders

Trailstar Boat Trailer Parts

July 5, 2011 by AutoStaff

Watercraft activities are fun for all ages and many people with access to lakes and waterways own their own boat, which they store at home until time for launching it for a trip. In order to transport your vessel to the place you will launch it, you need a safe and reliable trailer. The Tracker Boat Company includes a trailstar trailer with each of its Tracker, Mako and Sun Tracker models. These trailers are built at their factory and custom matched there to the specific craft it will carry.


Many models of Tracker boats are made. The Sun Tracker line produces some of the country’s best-selling pontoon crafts. Mako vessels are made both for use as saltwater offshore sporting vessels and for in-shore fishing trips. Their trailstar trailer accessories are engineered for optimal fit for each boat model and made specifically for safely carrying the model for which it is designed.

All trailstar trailers are made with GalvaShield tubing. The frames of these trailers are built with a tubular galvanized steel frame. All parts of the frame are welded together, with no bolts used. This process provides an impressive weight-to-strength ratio. With a powder coat finish, these trailers are resistance to corrosion. Other trailstar boat trailer parts include:

  • Optional surge drum brakes
  • Trailstar brake parts
  • Multiple carpeted and welded bunk supports
  • Roller load guides (upright position)
  • Pivoting (swing-away)tongue joint/rotating tongue jack
  • EZ Lube Hubs
  • Retractable safety cables
  • Winch straps with bow safety straps
  • Lockable retainer pin
  • Outdoor motor support
  • Carpeted fender boards
  • License plate bracket

State towing regulations vary on brake requirements for trailers but Tracker has brake packages available when needed. The carpeted bunk supports prevent road stress on the boat by cradling the hull. Roller load guides help center the craft when loading it. The tongue jack is quickly efficient when lowering and raising the trailer for attachment to the towing vehicle. It also pivots and locks itself into place for transport. Some models include a swing-away trailer tongue, allowing vessels to be stores in small spaces. No disassembling of the hubs is necessary with the EZ Lube Hubs. These allow grease to be injected into the fittings to maintain movement of the wheel bearings. The motor support protects the hull and transom from damage from bouncing of the outboard motor.

Some customers have reported problems with certain trailer parts (and trailstar boat trailers) such as crooked welding on jacks and fenders coming off but the reports are not numerous. There was a recall in March of 2008 on some 1161 trailers for the mounting hardware on the jack, which was prone to loosen and allow the jack assembly to come off the trailer. This involved nine different models of the Trailstars, all made between 2007 and 2008.

Trailstar boat trailer parts (like the trailstar roller guide or plexiglass boat windshields) can be found at Tracker dealers around the country. There are also several major online shopping sources for trailstar parts. Check with www.boating-accessory-online.com and www.trailerartsdepot.com  for new and rebuild parts. Another major marine equipment supplier is www.easternmarine.com, which carries parts for trailstar and many other models.

Filed Under: Boats Tagged With: mako, sun, tracker boats, trailstar trailer parts, trailstar trailers

Finding Mercruiser Parts

June 24, 2011 by Amy


If you own some sort of a Mercruiser boat or vehicle, you most likely eventually need some Mercruiser parts to keep it in top shape. In this guide, we will provide you with information on some of the top selling Mercruiser items, as well as how to go about getting them, and where the best parts locations and dealers are. For those of you who are ready to delve into the world of boat parts and all things Mercruiser, then here we go. Get ready to enjoy this guide and its details to the fullest.

Ehxaust Pipes

One of the most common types of Mercruiser parts is the broad range of exhaust pipes. Here are some common parts associated with this category:

  • Mercury/Quicksilver Parts Elbow-Exhaust Mercruiser End Rise Manifold & Elbow—While this product costs a sturdy $199.95, which is closer to $200 after tax, you will get a plethora of benefits from it for sure. It is a great exhaust mechanism that will help to keep your boat cool and make sure that it doesn’t overheat.
  • Mercruiser Alpha One & Bravo Exhaust Bellow Kit—This is one product that you will also need for your exhaust part. It is only $24, which is also a great deal, considering it may cost you significantly more if you go somewhere else.

Starters

In order to keep your Mercruiser boat running efficiently, you may need a good starter for it. You can find one of these by using a Mercruiser parts lookup, or just from looking at this list below:

  • Mercruiser 4.3L 5.0 5.7 350 Marine Starter 1998-Up—This starter only costs $54.95, which is not a bad buy at all for a starter. If your boat won’t start, then this may be one of the best used Mercruiser parts to choose from.
  • New Starter OMC Mercruiser 3.0 Marine L/S Mount 3850526—For $48.40, you can’t really find a better deal on a Mercruiser starter. If you maintain it and replace your starter every few months, you are sure to find that it lasts longer than one that is not so well maintained.

Canadian Mercruiser Companies and Parts

If you are looking for Mercruiser or even boat trailer parts in Canada, there are quite a few different places you can check out. Here are brief profiles on a few of the best Mercruiser companies that Canada has to offer:

  • Marine Manifold—This company is Canada’s number one resource for selling boat engine parts and other accessories related to marine vehicles. At marinemanifold.com, you can find a wide variety of some of the best inventory available to you, ranging from engine parts to manifolds and risers.
  • boatparts.ca—Yet another high competitor for boat parts in Canada, they have gained a reputation as being one of the best places to go when you need good Canadian Mercruiser parts.

UK Mercruiser Companies and Parts

Then again, if you live in the United Kingdom, you may need some Mercruiser parts UK. Never fear, there is a list here for you as well:

  • HBM Mercruiser Parts—Through their website, you can order many different Mercruiser parts, as well as browser their list of inventory. They are quite reputable throughout much of the United Kingdom and the surrounding areas.
  • Aqua Part—aquapart.co.uk is another fantastic website which sells unlimited amounts of boat parts at ridiculously reasonable prices that you are sure to appreciate, no matter what sort of a part you need.

Overall, there are many Mercruiser parts, companies, and more to select. Whether you physically walk into the store or select the parts on the web, it is entirely up to you. What matters most is getting the parts that you need in a timely manner and maintaining them.

Filed Under: Auto Parts, Boats Tagged With: mercruiser parts, mercruiser parts canada, mercruiser parts lookup, mercruiser parts uk, used mercruiser parts

Safe Boat Towing and Boat Trailer Parts

March 22, 2011 by Amy

If you don’t own lakefront property, but you’re a boater, you’ll have to tow your boat to water – sometimes for many miles.  You’ll need a well-built, safe trailer and boat trailer parts to get the job done well.  If you’re a novice at towing a trailer with a boat on it, you’ll have to learn a few skills, such as how to brake when hauling, how to turn and how to back your vehicle up with a trailer attached.  You don’t want to be one of those drivers towing a boat on the highway that everyone avoids because you’re swaying all over the road.  The most important part of safety when towing is to be prepared, so consider whether your vehicle can tow the size of boat you purchased and how to load it on the trailer so that it is safe for you and those around you.

Boat Trailer Parts and Accessories
EZ Loader Boat Trailers manufactures boat trailers for many of the largest boat companies in the USA.  EZ Loader boat trailers are certified by the NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association) and compliant with the NATM (National Association of Trailer Manufacturers).  Here is a list of some of categories included in EZ loader boat trailer parts:

  • Tires and Wheels
    • Aluminum Wheel
    • Assemblies (tires mounted on wheels)
    • Radial Tires
    • Steel Wheels
    • Center caps
    • Wheel fasteners
  • Lights and Electrical
    • Electrical and Harness
    • License Plate
    • Reflectors
    • Sidemarker Lights
    • Tail Lights (includes barlights)
    • Underwater Launch Lights
  • Couplers and Actuators
    • Actuators (for trailers with brakes)
    • Couplers
    • Parts (for actuators & couplers)
  • Jacks
    • Weld on bracket
    • Bolt on
  • Winches
    • Covered
    • Open
    • Strap only (with hook)
  • Hub bearing kits (for one complete axle)
    • 2500 lb axle bearing kit
    • 3700 lb axle, trailer built May 2002 to date
    • 3700 lb axle, trailer built before May 2002
    • 5200 lb axle bearing kit
  • Hub assembly (for one wheel)
    • Hub for spring axles
    • Hub & arm for torsion axles
  • Brake parts
    • Disc brake parts
    • Drum brake parts
    • Brake accessories, misc
  • Cables & chains
    • Safety cable w/hook CL-4 (one cable)
    • Safety cable w/hook Class 3 (on cable)
  • Accessories, general
    • Retractable tiedowns
    • Keel roller kit
    • Keel pad (with rivets)
  • Carpet for bunks
    • One type only in various colors

Rollers are an important part of your trailer mechanism for ease of loading and unloading and stability of your auto boat trailers once loaded.  There are a few boat trailer parts rollers with different functions, including wobble rollers, keel rollers, bow stop rollers & Vs, straight rollers & caps plus roller assemblies, roller brackets & hardware and remote control boat bow eye latch systems.

Trailstar boat trailers and Trailstar boat trailer parts have, in the past, been subject to recalls, but none since 2008.  Parts would be available where your purchase your Trailstar boat trailer.  In their brochure, some of the features include:

  • Swing-Away trailer tongue – allows you to store your boat in tight spaces by shortening the overall length of your trailer.
  • Retractable safety cables – new retractable safety cables (on most models) make connecting the cables to your vehicle a breeze.
  • Winch strap – non-binding nylon strap with safety strap is ideal for securing your boat to its trailer.
  • Brakes – all Trailstar™ trailers are available with optional surge drum brakes that stop quickly and won’t engage when backing.
  • Multiple carpeted bunk supports – cradles the hull to prevent road/trailer stress.
  • Roller load guide – upright rollers assist in centering the boat for easy loading.
  • Easy-to-maintain hubs – our exclusive EZ Lube Hubs make maintenance easy. Just inject grease into the fittings to deliver maximum lubrication to both inner wheel bearing and outer bearings. No disassembly of hub necessary.

Boat trailers and boat trailer parts should be chosen wisely so you can enjoy your time on the water.

Filed Under: Boats Tagged With: boat trailer parts, boat trailer parts and accessories, boat trailer parts rollers, ez loader boat trailer parts, trailstar boat trailer parts

An Outdoorsman’s Guide to Boat Seats

January 10, 2011 by Amy


Spending quality time with friends and family on board your water craft is more enjoyable with comfortable, quality boat seats. If you’ve been getting by with old, uncomfortable seats why not take a look at replacing them with new boat seats? In this guide we’ll take a look at the boat seating standards,  the top brands of boat seats and what you can expect to pay.

Boat Seat Standards
One thing to keep in mind as you shop for new boat seats is the type of seating you need to purchase. The American Boat and Yacht Council has published a set of recommendations for boat seat safety. These recommendations place pedestal boat seating into two primary categories:

  • Class A: The boat seat is designed for use when the boat is traveling at any speed.
  • Class B: The boat seat is designed for use only when the boat speed is no greater than 5 miles per hour.

To qualify for either classification, seating must pass several tests, both vertical and horizontal torque and load tests. Look for brands, like Springfield, that incorporate these standards into their manufacturing process.

Top Brands

  • Wise Boat Seats – Wise has been manufacturing seats since 1960. They offer a huge assortment of marine seating as well as truck seats and industrial seating. Wise has one of the best selections of the manufacturers out there, offering 13 categories of products including fishing boat seats, premium bucket seats, pontoon boat seats, camouflage boat seats and designer seats. Wise has a good warranty program; their Designer Boat Seats for example has a 6 year warranty on the frame and a 3 year warranty on the upholstery. Wise is also competitive when it comes to pricing. Their economy fishing boat seat runs $40 and their pro bass boat seats are $20 for the seat only.
  • Springfield Boat Seats – Springfield is another company with a long company history. They began making seating for the marine industry in 1968. With one of the best warranties in the industry, it’s no wonder that Springfield is a popular choice. They offer a limited 5 year warranty on all of their products. Springfield is primarily known for their pedestal stands and the stands are often paired with other upholstered seats. A pedestal with mounting brackets and hardware will run approximately $100-$160 depending on the types of features you select.
  • Toonmate Pontoon Boat Seats – If you’re looking for pontoon boat seats and accessories, you’ll want to check out Toonmate. Their selection of designer and premium seats are available in a huge variety of configurations. You can also custom select your colors and also buy furniture packages which can help save you a fair amount. Expect to pay $160 and up for lounge seats A package that includes 2 bench seats, a corner section seat, bucket style captain seat and a steering console will set you back about $995.
  • Centurion Boat Seat Covers – Once you’ve invested in your new boat seats, it’s a good idea to also invest in covers to keep them in good shape. Centurion produces a line of high quality vinyl seat covers that help prevent fading and cracking that can be caused by excessive exposure to wind and sun. Folding covers range from $15 – $30 depending on the size.

Your boat seats are one of the primary places you’ll spend time on your boat. If you’re looking to improve the comfort, appearance and resale value of your boat – the seating is the perfect place to start. Stick with a known brand that offers a good product warranty and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your purchase will serve you well for many years.

Filed Under: Boats Tagged With: bass boat seats, boat seats, fishing boat seats, pontoon boat seats, wise boat seats

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