Initial Setup Prior to Use (Fitment)
Your new WAG Boarding Steps Model LM-6/LM-6H comes fully assembled from the factory and does not require tools
to setup or use. The difference between the LM-6 and LM-6H is the component colors/finishes. For safe and optimum
performance, the initial setup (fitment) for your specific boat must be performed prior to use since boats come in many
different styles, shapes and sizes. The initial setup is best done with the boat out of the water to observe fit.
WAG Boarding Steps Model LM-6/LM-6H is designed to mount on the boat's gunwale or transom lip. To work
effectively, the mounting location should have:
•
a lip width of no more than 3-1/2" (hook can be modified for slightly wider lips)
•
a flat lip section at least 15" wide
•
no obstructions inside of the boat within 3-1/2" of the top of the lip (hook can be modified if less than 3-1/2")
•
a freeboard (distance from top of lip to water level) of no more than 16" (less is better for bigger dogs)
Step 2
- Loosen the female knobs on both upper mounting
brackets and pivot the hooks open. Hook the upper
mounting brackets over the gunwale or transom lip in the
desired mounting location. (If necessary, the lower carriage
bolt can be temporarily removed to open the hook more or
the hooks can be flipped or relocated to the other set of
holes.) Do not tighten the knobs, yet.
Step 3
- With one of the struts in hand and the corners of the upper mounting
brackets held tight against the lip, determine which set of holes in the runner and
strut will provide a relatively flat step (unit mounted at approximately 45
degrees) and have the strut contact the hull in a stiff location. (The strut can be
flipped as necessary.) Insert the male knobs and tighten the female knobs.
Repeat with the other strut. The proprietary design allows the struts to be
independently mounted to account for compound hull shapes.
Step 1
- Remove the collapsed assembly from its packaging,
stand on end or lay flat and remove both struts by loosening the
female knobs and removing the male knobs. The male knobs
may initially be a tight fit in the runner clearance holes due to
manufacturing tolerances. Set the struts and hardware aside.
Step 4
- Position the corners of the upper mounting brackets tight against
the lip, rotate the hooks in tight against the inside of the lip/hull and tighten
the hook female knobs firmly. (The hooks do not need to be under a lip and
can be flipped, if necessary.) If the hooks prevent the brackets from sitting
on the lip, they may need to be modified by cutting along a rib. (Examples
are pictured to the left.) Verify the mounting angle and adjust, if necessary.
The unit is designed to flex some to accommodate minor irregularities, but
verify good contact of the upper mounting brackets and struts prior to use.
Congratulations! You have completed the initial setup of WAG Boarding
Steps for your boat and are now ready for hours of enjoyment.
