Any ideas/suggestions on how to mount a 12" PVC sail-tube to the trailer.......?
R
What I've seen used is Galvanized Steel Hanger Strapping over the top of the tube connected to the trailer with eye-bolts to tension the strapping.
Here you go,
http://www.thebeachcats.com/news/55/pvc-catamaran-sail-storage-tube/
looks like a simple way, if you don't like the strap going over the top of the tube you could use a few 1-1/2"wafer head screws from the inside, through the tube into the wood block.
good luck
I looked at both of the sail tube builds in the Technical Tips......
http://www.thebeachcats.com/pictures/?g2_itemId=74277
http://www.thebeachcats.com/pictures/?g2_itemId=11464
......and was looking for something a little more secure than the strapping. PS, I called my local Water & Sewer Supply, they want $77 each for end-caps....... :scared:
R
How about some epoxy between your mounting blocks and the tube with a couple of 1 5/8" fasteners to hold it in place until cured. You should be able to get inside a 12" pipe with an impact driver and get the fasteners flush with the tube to prevent snags. If you prep the pipe surface and the mounting block correctly, it should be stronger than the mount to the trailer frame.
$77 is a lot for a 12" cap, but it's not unreasonable when you look at pricing for fittings in that size. I think that's why a lot of the sail tube designs on this site use an alternative method of sealing the ends.
After hours shopping at the local housing development maybe? :whistle:
If using PVC use either square U bolts or two pieces of flat steel and two carriage bolts to clamp from inside the pipe outside and around the cross beams on your trailer. I prefer the steel and carriage bolts as it is easier to configure for a neat fit. Mount at at least 3 points if possible.
If using HDPE (typically black corrugated pipe) you should probably go with at least one strap as well unless it is double wall pipe as the HDPE is not as tough.
That is my sailtube in the first link and I have had the rear strap crack and have since doubled the rear strap.
Not the best solution but works ok. I have also seen people use ratchet straps to hold their tube in place. Makes it easy to remove and install.