Under Platform Swim Ladder

[MichaelOKC]

My question concerns the swim ladder on my ‘89 3467 Santego. It has an under platform configuration with, as I recall, three collapsible steps. The problem is that at some point, under power, it opens up. I do not actually know this has happened until I return to the dock and notice it completely hanging “unfurled” below the stern deck. More recently I might have heard and/or felt a mild change/disturbance from the stern under acceleration, which may have been related to the ladder deploying?
When we pulled the boat out, year before last, to have the hull cleaned and treated, no one mentioned any issues concerning the ladder. Also, I do not know if this ladder configuration is a common feature on Santegos. I might also add that I wish it had a few more steps. For a while, I had wrapped a bungee around it, but that was apparently a temporary fix. I presume there is/was some kind latch mechanism that has failed. Also, the fact that I cannot see what is wrong without a mask and goggles means a wait for warmer water, or until the next “bottom job.” Maybe just get another bungee cord? Thanks for your suggestions.

[Midnightsun]

I have seen quite a few swim ladders, most have a small nylon strap that can be clipped or snapped into place securing the ladder in its fully retracted position others have a rubber strap. Have also seen a flip down rigid piece that secures the ladder when fully retracted. The one I have now is rather unique as it has an integrated locking mechanism built in with a red button on the end that needs to be pushed in order to release which is the original delivered with the boat. Yours should have something to lock it in place, if not then as you mentioned a bungee cord will do for now.

Back to a failed latch mechanism you mentioned. In the past how did you deploy it? Must have been something you needed to do to unlock it. If it is like mine with the red button then the ladder needs a good swift final push to engage the mechanism other wise it may not lock and may deploy on its own after travelling. This is what the ladder looks like, does yours have a red button on the end like in the link? Not sure if this is what Carver used or if it is a copy cat Chinese brand. https://www.sealuxpro.com/SeaLux-Pop-N- ... ing-Ladder

[Rocketman]

My 2009 44 Sojourn had the same issue. a short 3 step ladder that would vibrate out over time. No latch mechanism on mine. I think it was originally just friction that loosened up over time.
I used a small bungee cord for a while until I could replace with a new 4 step ladder that has a latch.
By the way, my wife loves the new 4 stop so she does not have to struggle so hard to get out of the water.

I did replace mine in the water but it was a royal pain as I have pods and could not get close enough to the bank to stand. I had to do it from a large tow raft. Used some of the original holes but had to drill some new ones.
My swim platform has an aluminum plate sandwiched into the fiberglass swim platform that I had to drill thru and use large SS hex head metal screws to secure.

[MichaelOKC]

You confirm my guesswork. I’ll try a couple of bungees until it’s warm enough to get into the water for a closer inspection. Your comments are very helpful.