Grand Slam Outrigger Mount FAQ
Can I change the handle position on my Grand Slam mount?
The
GS-280 and
GS-400 allow for an adjustment in the instance your outrigger mount handle needs to be moved to a different position for rotation. To make this adjustment:
- Remove the two hex head screws from the handle with an Allen wrench.
- Remove the handle.
- Remove the plastic TACO logo cap from the bottom of the rotator (GS-280 only).
- Use a 9/16” socket and ratchet extension to loosen the nut inside the rotator.
- Loosen the nut 6-7 turns.
- Reinstall the handle (Do not reinstall the handle screws yet).
- Lift the head of the unit and rotate it to the desired position.
- Pay close attention to where the handle needs to be located when the arm is facing aft.
- Increments/splines in which the head can be rotated are 30°.
- Allow the head to seat/snap down into the desired location.
- Tighten the 9/16” nut.
- Reinstall the bottom cap.
- Reinstall the rotation handle screws.
For all Grand Slam models that have lifting, crank handles, the handle position must be ordered in the position you want it. Once built, it cannot be moved to another position.
How do I order a Grand Slam with different handle positions?
The starting positions of the handle on all standard Grand Slam models is with the outrigger facing the stern. In this position, the rotation handle is also pointing straight back. The only mount with full rotation and lift capability currently available in the aftermarket with a forward-facing handle direction is the
GS-390-180.
Where should I mount the Grand Slam?
When mounting on a hardtop, the outrigger base should be mounted between 8”-14” from the outside edge, if possible. This makes it easier to install, remove, rig and reposition the height of the outrigger while standing on the gunnel. However, care must be taken when choosing the location of the 3-1/8” hole. Always allow for sufficient clearance of the handle in the direction it is going to be rotated so it does not hit support pipes or other obstacles that might obstruct its movement.
On canvas T-tops, a welded mounting/extrusion plate should be mounted directly under the canvas and be part of the top’s frame structure. Prior to having the mounting/extrusion plate installed, consider the location of the outrigger mount by determining the distance from the outside edge of the canvas top’s support tubing and the placement of the 3-1/8” hole. Always allow for sufficient clearance of the handle in the direction it is going to be rotated so it does not hit support pipes or other obstacles that might obstruct its movement.
Minimum handle clearance distances from the center of the 3-1/8” hole to any object are as follows:
How far above and below the T-top or Hardtop do the Grand Slams extend while the arm is in the horizontal position?
The distance below the top is useful for determining headroom. The distance above the top is useful when choosing a location to store the boat. Distances underneath the top will change based on the top’s thickness and how much of the lower portion of the base is exposed. When attached to a mounting/extrusion plate or a hardtop, and without the use of a wedge plate, the dimensions are:
- GS-170 - 5-1/2” above
- GS-280 - 9” above and 6-9/16” below to the end of the rotation handle
- GS-2801 - 9” above and 6-13/16” below to the end of the rotation handle
- GS-390 - 9-1/5” above and 7-3/4” below to the end of the crank handle
- GS-400 - 9-15/16” above and 6-3/4” below to the end of the rotation handle
- GS-500 - 9-15/16” above and 7-11/16” below to the end of the crank handle
Where should I mount the pad eye to hook the rigging?
There are several locations to mount the pad eye, based on your preference from where you would like to control the halyard lines.
- On the outside edge of the hardtop to control halyard lines above the head.
- On the T-top support frame to control the halyard lines at chest level.
- On the surface of the gunnel to control the halyard lines from in front of you while facing the water.
- Install the pad eye even with to no more than 12” aft of the Grand Slam unit.
Loosening Base Maintenance
If the 9/16" bolt on your
GS-280 or
GS-2801 loosens, please follow these steps to tighten the base.
- Remove the two hex head screws from the handle with an Allen wrench
- Remove the handle
- NOTE: you can get to the top screw easier if you pull down on the handle and move it, so it is in-between positions
- Remove the plastic TACO logo cap from the bottom of the rotator
- Inside the unit there is a bolt head
- Use a ratchet, extension and a 9/16" socket
- Tighten the bolt clockwise about five turns
- NOTE: Add a small amount of red Loctite to the threads of the bolt as well
- Once tightened, reinstall the cap,
- Reinstall the rotation handle using the same screws that were removed
