Boat Bumpers - Quick Connect?

[stfoulks]

I'm wondering if anyone out there has a good system for putting the bumpers out. I stow them when not at the dock, and it's not that this is a huge hassle, but sometimes I get lazy... anyone out there have a better mousetrap than tying them to a handle or cleat every time? Are there quick connect cords that might allow you to leave some part in place and then just snap the bumpers in when you use them?

 

[canadianwhiskey]

I am sure you can work out something with clips but the better option is fastening the bumpers to the dock and then just tie your boat up. That is basically what we do. Now I do keep one bumper on the boat in case I go to another dock but putting them on the dock works really well.

 

[stfoulks]

The few, the proud, those who trailer their boats to and from the lake

Oh that I were fortunate enough to have a place on the lake. I'm still hauling the boat with me when I go places, so I always have to use the bumpers when launching (kids are not quite old enough to help with the launch/pull out process)... but when we do get a place, I think I'll put 'em on the dock.

 

[truthbetold]

If you make a full loop in the rope that is attached to the rubber bumper you can then thread it through and around each cleat. The same way the straps that are connected to the poles, that come with the factory cover, works. I hope I explained that well!

 

[RFoster130]

I leave a loop tied in the end of the rope. Makes it real easy to throw them on.

 

[davo]

I just have a loop permanently on the fender/bumper, and just put it over the cleat. They won't come off either. Very easy.

 

[biffdotorg]

I think I may rig mine this winter with straps and clips. Then they could easily be clipped onto the rail, cleat, tower or wherever they are needed and adjust the length with the loose end.

We will see how that works, but I get your point, they are never in the right place everytime.

 

[unclejay]

Various Fixes

1. Velcro straps - work pretty good but will come loose if the fender bumps against the dock with any force (wake etc)

2. Plastic clips from Bass Pro Shops - sort of OK but break easily and hard to put on if there is also a rope at the same cleat

3. Suction cup retainers from West Marine- work pretty good if the suction cup is fixed to the INSIDE wall of the boat with strap over the gunwale, and use water on the suction cup.

4. metal Carabiniers (aluminum D rings like climbers use) with zip ties to secure them to the fender - work pretty good except they scratch the cleats. You can get these at Lowe's Home Depot but they have sharp teeth on the clips can cut hands