John Greviskis explains the purpose of "D" rings and how to safely use them.
Figure A
Figure B
Figure C
Figure D
"D" rings can be used in many ways. Host John Greviskis shares information concerning their many uses.
A "D" ring (figure A) is a stainless steel piece of marine-grade hardware that is bent or rounded with a couple of backing plates over two threaded studs. "D" rings are thru-bolted into the transom of the boat. The D rings come with a couple of backing plates that slide over the front (threaded) end of the D ring. It helps secure the D ring inside the transom. You would do this because you don't want any of the hardware to pull through the boat transom.
Note: For the particular boat used on this episode, Greviskis went with a "D" ring instead of a ski tow (figure B) because of the big outdoor engine at the back of the boat.
Some boaters will use "D" rings to lift their boat out of the water using a set of davits on the dock (figure C). Greviskis says there are a few reasons why you may want to use the davit system:
You may not want to apply bottom paint to your boat, which is why you'd want to keep it docked "out" of the water.
Lifting the boat completely out of the water during the off-season can prevent water corrosion.
If you feel like lending a helping hand to a stranded boater out on the water, the "D" ring, davit system will come in handy because you'll be able to tow the stranded boat.
Another use for "D" rings is for towing stranded boaters to a nearby dock. When towing another boat, always use caution to prevent the lines from snapping and injuring someone.
Pulling water toys, wakeboarders and skiers is also a reason to have a set of "D" rings installed on your boat. Straps are attached to each "D" ring and around the motor, where is becomes one line going out to the float or water skier.
With a "D" ring installed on your boat, it's much easier to secure the boat on a trailer. Instead of having to use a strap system, you can simply secure the boat by attaching the strap directly to the D ring (figure D).
)
)
)
)
)
