S4, Ep40 DIY Swim Step Build on a Liveaboard Sailboat — Our Favorite Spot
October 12, 2025 · 29 min · 272 views · San Diego, United States
What this video covers
Tim and his crew fabricate and install a custom stainless steel swim step on their liveaboard sailboat to improve stern access and provide a platform for relaxing. The project begins with measuring and TIG welding a custom frame, which requires cutting into the boat's interior headboard to access the mounting points for through-bolting.5:15 After tack-welding the frame at a mooring ball, the team moves the vessel to a work slip to complete the final welding and installation.11:20 The welding process causes the metal frame to warp slightly, forcing the crew to redrill mounting holes and fill the original misaligned holes with epoxy.21:25 The final platform uses Starboard plastic, which is notched to fit around the support braces.24:25 The installation is finished with 5200 sealant to ensure a watertight seal.23:50 The completed swim step provides a stable platform for boarding and water access, successfully integrating with the previously installed solar arch and stern railing.
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