67 SN Resto/Mod rev. 2

8122pbrainard wrote: C-Bass wrote: The platform has already been converted to an end table, so safe to say it won't be going back on the SN. And yet another with class!!

Class and originality aside, I am wondering how we're going to get back into this thing without a platform. Anyone have a good solution? If it were my only boat that I had to use for watersports, I would without a doubt put a platform on it.

They made portable ladders that can be hung over the gunnel if you're hard over. Or you can climb in like a man- consider it a prerequisite for owning such a cool old boat, if you like.

Pete would be glad to know I helped de-platform 2 Mustangs this year. Keep up the good work, Craig!

TRBenj wrote: Pete would be glad to know I helped de-platform 2 Mustangs this year. Keep up the good work, Craig!

I am!! Now maybe TP will get the idea.

Craig,
Yes, the over the gunnel ladders work. If you don't like the idea, I've used the step on the top of the rudder trick many times.

Riley wrote: those ladders will scratch the gel.

The tops have vinyl on them and the horizontals against the hull have rubber bumpers.

Yes,   I totally agree with Bruce. If you are going to use a vintage ski boat as such, you gotta have a swim platform.

Smithsonian Display - No Platform
Useable Ski Boat    - Platform

those ladders are awkward , the center bolt ons are ugly unless factory installed then they are ugly but acceptable. i vote for the swim platform also . there is nothing like anchoring and just sitting back there feet in the water . i would also vote for that rare turquoise it is really a stunning color.

I guess the old lady will have to ski home!

Im a fan of keeping it original. When I bought my '76 I was partly disappointed a PO put the platform on (but at least they kept the step of the factory ladder above the platform which actually looks decent). We never had any platforms before. Don't have the luxury of skiing from a dock. Always put my feet in both bindings in deep water. One day I had an Einstein moment (just a few months ago) and I thought..... crazy idea..... lets put the ski on, while standing on the platform and then casually step into the water, no more floundering around. Ever since then Ill have to break a the rules and always have a platform.

My wife says:   "to heck with the metal flake, Chicks dig swim platforms !"

I appreciate the differing viewpoints/suggestions guys, but I'm not hung up on whether or not to put the platform back on. There won't be a platform on this boat.

The gunnel ladder seems like a good option. I can always store it in the tower racks when not in use.

As long as you go with under water lights I am ok with it.

Peter,
I'd go with the paint. At least then it would look original!

EDIT: As long as the paint job is the same color as one of the original colors!

peter1234 wrote: those ladders are awkward , the center bolt ons are ugly unless factory installed then they are ugly but acceptable. i vote for the swim platform also . there is nothing like anchoring and just sitting back there feet in the water . i would also vote for that rare turquoise it is really a stunning color.

+++1 on all fronts !! And that turquoise is the best color out there !!

It's not your age, it's just poor taste.. I won't hassle anyone too much about putting a platform on a '77 since CC was doing the same thing a year later... But something about the colored hulls and rounded windshields just mismatches horribly with a big square platform hanging off the back. But I don't think big spoilers look good on cars either, so it could just be me. Can't argue the function part but I use my classic boats as they're intended (to ski!) and I seem to be managing just fine. It's a moot point in this thread since Craig has the good sense not to re-install it, so I suppose we can quit highjacking his thread. The tower will look great, I'm sure!

That turquoise would probably get my vote, but if you're not in love with any of the other choices, stick with the original light blue... I've strayed plenty of times, but have never regretted a decision to keep something original.

Yeah, mine really isn't that big, it's small actually and it hides quite well IMO. Riley love your "Complete" boat haha.

O and big spoilers suck.

I like that he's going with the original color.