+1 on Highfield…. I just went thru this comparing quite a few and kept coming back to Highfield
http://www.highfieldboats.com/classic-290-2/
http://www.highfieldboats.com/classic-290-2/
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Yes...but they can be slid as required as well. The nice thing is they can be slid apart to lower the dingy on the platform. My factory GHS lift does not go down as far as my dockmate's 55DB (same boat - with an extended, fixed platform) that had GHS cut his long fixed platform and install a lift last year.Are the GHS chocks you're using now the standard (2 pieces per side) bolted ones that come with the platform? I have these but thought the sliding ones would be helpful to add room to access stern lockers, etc.
+1 on Highfield…. I just went thru this comparing quite a few and kept coming back to Highfield
http://www.highfieldboats.com/classic-290-2/
My only knock against AB is the surface rust on the stainless hardware after the first season. Not sure how other brands compare but I was surprised at parts like the steering wheel. Otherwise very happy with our AB.
My only knock against AB is the surface rust on the stainless hardware after the first season. Not sure how other brands compare but I was surprised at parts like the steering wheel. Otherwise very happy with our AB.
Do you guys running aluminum RIBs have any issues with corrosion if the paint gets chipped?
I've been really happy with my Achilles 350 Rib built up as a center console with components from defender. I have a 30 HP Honda with power tilt. There is way more floor space and it is way lighter than the molded in seats and console. Mine weighs in at around 450 lbs with 6 gallons of fuel.I’m building an AB 10 VS, with a 25 Suzuki, and a Highfield FCT console. It will go on our Meridian 391 with our newly installed Sealift we got a year ago. I was really torn between the AB 10 VS, and Highfield CL340. Our primary concern was space for our 2 dogs, which is why I wanted the Highfield FCT Console or similar.....or I woulda gone with an AB Mares. I didn’t like the Eurohelms, and the only other brands that seem to make a Eurohelm style helm are Zar and Gala.
The single biggest factor that sold us on the AB is simply that the floor on the AB is flat from tube to tube, and the Highfield floor is flat in the center, but then takes a sharp angle up towards the tubes......read: less floor space for the doggos.
I’m saving a ton of $$ by building the tender. Got sweet deals from:
—Defender.com: AB 10 VS
—Onlineoutboards.com: Suzuki DF25 (power tilt n trim)
—Nautical Ventures in West Palm : FCT ConsoleView attachment 78729View attachment 78730View attachment 78731View attachment 78732
Lots of great information here - thanks everyone
I didn't realize there were this many combinations to consider / choose from.
I looked at the AB today, it's a 2015 12' Mares with a 40 horse Yamaha , one major disadvantage I see is the center seat requires you to step over vs the Highfield more open seating
We have an AB 10’ with a 20 hp Yamaha 4 stroke. We are very happy with both the AB and Yamaha. We have a lab and a lab mix. I agree with the previous comments on the flat fiberglass deck which is great with the furry mates.
This is my 4th Yamaha motor and each one has been excellent. I can not say the same for my previous experience with Mercury marine products. The only issue with the AB is what was mentioned by others with the stainless eyes and it’s really not a big deal. It’s also quite easy to replace the stainless bow & stern eyes. I have had Quicksilver and Achilles inflatables previously. By far the AB is the best one.
I would definitely buy one again
Good luck