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BobRae99 wrote: Wed May 13, 2020 1:43 pm
. Now, if I could just remember to retract the step before staring the engine and motoring away.
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Was just going to ask you about this BR99.
I'm curious what happens when you forget? For us with a basic swim ladder, it just bounces and when we notice it, we stop and retract.
What actually happens with the retractable swim platform (and the boat) above 50 mph?
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I suspect the step comes out of the water when the boat comes up on plane (?) , but I don't know for sure. We usually motor about 1/2 mile from the marina, drop a hook and the kids go swimming, so the trip back is usually at around 30 mph. Lets just say, it can't be good for the assembly and best to avoid it.
2019 Cobalt R3 - V8/350 - Ebony Hull w/ Knock Out Red Edge Stripe
When we first got drop down step, I had a little trouble with it. I had sprained my left wrist and had trouble twisting it. I eventually developed a technique that allows me to get in easily. Left hand on step, whole right arm to elbow on step, and twist up. Like most things, golf, skiing, etc....technique is a must.
2019 Cobalt R3 @ Greers Ferry Lake, AR
Home in Hernando, MS
Just saw an email from Cobalt about their new E-step, an electric folding step that will be available on the new R series. Won’t help the OP but thought it was interesting. Not sure if it was an option or standard.
This feature may sound like overkill but for us, it is more awkward to put the step up or down than to actually use it. Ours doesn’t “float up” like the manual says. But, as far as getting in or out, we like it better than a ladder.
Dub
2017 220S (280 HP Volvo duoprop)
Live in Shepherdsville, KY
Boat at Laurel Lake (London, KY)
Alaskabound wrote: Sat Aug 29, 2020 11:47 am
Just saw an email from Cobalt about their new E-step, an electric folding step that will be available on the new R series. Won’t help the OP but thought it was interesting. Not sure if it was an option or standard.
This feature may sound like overkill but for us, it is more awkward to put the step up or down than to actually use it. Ours doesn’t “float up” like the manual says. But, as far as getting in or out, we like it better than a ladder.
Dub
Oh its a option and not a cheap one. Lol
03Cobalt220 8.1gxi DP
"Kids in Tow2"
"Pot The Jus" Originator :-)
Neenah Wi
#ItsBu'sfault
#FARCON Marine CC Core!
Hey Skillet, The best way to see if you like it is to actually try it. Next time you see another Cobalt anchored up you could idle by and say" ooh, I've heard about these before, how do you like it?" Next thing you know they'll invite you to try it out! We love ours and is one of the reasons we bought a Cobalt. Unfortunately you'll have to trade your boat to get one unless your a heck of a fabricator!
Stagdad(Brian & Linda) 220s V8 300VP
Home Port Northern KY
Away Port Lake Cumberland / Dale Hollow
Homeskillet wrote: Sun May 03, 2020 8:45 pm
My swim platform is in near perfect shape. I was just thinking about my rickety old knees and wondering if there was a better way lol! I usually pop up on the platform without the ladder but those days are coming to an end shortly I think lol
I've looked at the new swim platform and thought it was the coolest thing, the best idea, etc...
But, here's how I use the two step ladder- I put both knees on the lower rung, then a foot, then up.
Really pretty easy. My knees are not in that great a shape, but I find this pretty easy.
Good luck!
Mike in SC
Lake Murray, SC
2003 Cobalt 220
350 Mag MPI/Merc Bravo 3
I'd love to add a fold down swim step like the newer Cobalts for my 24sx, but it appears impossible unless you find a custom fabricator. Haven't seen any after market products, which I assume has to do with Cobalts patent?
I'd prefer the fold down vs electric both due to cost and the electric ones just seem like one more thing to break.
2005 Cobalt 24SX 350Mag
2010 Key West 186 DC - retired
Lake Winnipesaukee
Our 2012 242 had a swim step and a ladder. We used the swim step mostly, if you have the right technique the swim step is way easier than the ladder is, our A25 had the electric platform with a ladder. We liked the platform for coving out but having to use the ladder to get in and out of the water during water sports was a pain. We prefer the flip down step overall. The electric flip down step seems silly to me especially for the price!