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Opinions on weaver style adjustable chocks?

Discussion in 'Technical Discussion' started by incoming, Jul 29, 2026.

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  1. incoming, Jul 29, 2026
    #1
    incoming

    incoming Active Member

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    Wondering folks opinions on the weaver style adjustable universal chocks for the specific application of mounting a 12’ AB fiberglass RIB on the bow of a sportfish? I would get the 1000 lb capacity variants for the larger pads and future dinghy flexibility.

    My main concern is the limited surface area on these engaging the hull of the RIB, especially in dynamic acceleration environments like the pitching and rolling bow of a sportfish in quartering headseas where any single chock could end up taking most of the dynamic load. I suspect this also happens with the traditional “v” style cradles to some extent, but for whatever reason they just “look” more secure to me.

    I like the fact that the weaver style chocks can accommodate different hull profiles if we change dinghys down the line, and minimal look of the weaver style chocks vs a larger cradle.
  2. Capt Ralph, Jul 29, 2026
    #2
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    I am not a big fan of stick-stands on the for deck of fast sport fishing boats.
    In my opinion; The wide, single piece V chocks are the better plan.
    Strapping to the stick-stand or V chocks is asking for trouble also.
    Separate eye-pads and cleats (toe-killers), with under deck backing, further help keep the RIB in place.

    One of my better projects was having built this tubular RIB stand.
    The contact areas are covered with white PVC hose (no scratches and no slipping).
    It will accommodate many different hull shapes.
    It holds my buddies 10’ AB RIB. Can probably go 14’ if needed.

    20171111_142249.jpg

    The square pads bolted to athwartship alloy frames already installed on the boat.
  3. incoming, Jul 29, 2026
    #3
    incoming

    incoming Active Member

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    Like the custom job! I definitely like the flexibility and load-spreading of linear chocks. I wonder why more people don’t use them? Millions of boat lifts and trailers can’t be wrong.

    Strong agree that dedicated tie down eyes are mandatory in any case. Was thinking that tight, stout tie downs would minimize uneven loading in the stand chocks (and eliminate the worst case scenario of bouncing and shifting).
  4. Capt Ralph, Jul 29, 2026
    #4
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    I have witnessed the stick chocks spreading and prying off the deck also.
    A good down bounce into a pothole and the V of the RIB hull acts like a wedge.

    During my delivery days, owners were always concerned why I brought my own straps and secured there lil boat down like a bug in a web.
    It was an issue I did not want to worry about during the delivery run.
    They did not see me strap their galley cabinets closed or tie the fridge in place.
    Never had a broke plate or appliances get re-located.
    There are owner/operators out there with out a clue what can happen from just a lil wave action and are surprised when their fridge is discovered face down on the sole.

    I know you are not one of these folks and sorry to stand on my soap box in your thread. Just trying to illustrate to all, Everything needs to be secured well. You don't want your for-deck mounted RIB to come crashing into your deck-house.
    Yep, I have a boat chock peeve.
  5. Pascal, Jul 29, 2026
    #5
    Pascal

    Pascal Senior Member

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    I would not use these especially at the bow. The for and aft cradle type chocks patterned after the hull shape are a much better option.

    I have built two set of chocks out of starboard a few years back, with the support boards running length wise. They worked very well.

    the key thing is the geometry of the straps. Many people strap the tenders or PWC with near vertical straps which do very little to prevent movement. You want the straps to be has horizontal as possible
    Capt Ralph likes this.
  6. Capt Ralph, Jul 29, 2026
    #6
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    There is not an UPPER CASE/Bold Like button available. Thank you brother Pascal for typing your post.