Rocket Launcher with Sunshade

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RobboNJ

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Location
LBI NJ
Model
Freedom 307
I'm looking at buying a used Freedom 307. Most of the models have the sunshade option, which I really dont want Has anyone added an after market rocket launcher to a boat with the electric sunshade? Seems like it should be doable.
 
I'd call a local t-top or marine pipe shop. I'm sure they can come up with a solution. The only potential issue will be access with the sunscreen in place but I'm sure it can be done.
 
My buddy's Coastal 281 has sureshade and top rocket launchers. I'm sure you could find someone to fabricate something like this.

1711194844268.png
 
Freedom, thanks for the pic! That is exactly what I would want to do. There is a pipe shop that participates in all the boat shows near me, I'll reach out to them.
 
Is there a gap between the shade and the hardtop? Looks like stock pipes. Could give a ring to WMW a call. They make them for GW.

Marine - Winterville Machine Works

We Engineer Prototypes & Produce High Quality Components for Premium Pleasure Craft OEM’s
www.wmwworks.com www.wmwworks.com
 
Also, the hard top rod holders are usually an option and they bolt onto the hardtop. If there is a gap, it could be very easy install with a WMW solution.
 
It all depends on how the shade is mounted. On my 335 there is no gap. So the gap would have to be created by moving the sure shade out some. Doable I am sure.
the second picture shows a sure shade on the topside which might make it a little different but same applies, either remove the shade altogether or create a gap By moving the "base" location out some.
Also consider how you can reach the rockets when in launchers if the shade still is in place.
H
 
Eventually, Sure Shade will get smart, and install a U-shaped zipper underneath the rocket launcher position, so that you can unzip the flap, and I have about a foot wide opening to reach up and take down, or replace a rod.
 
Well,well, that is an idea that is easily accommodated as an after market modification by an upholstery shop or similar. The zipper though has to be rugged strong and not clogging up by oxidation, so plastic most likely.
A good idea, easy to do and all you need is to mount rocker launchers high enough to clear the shade .
 
GWperformancewelding.jpeg
gwperformancewelding.com

Not my boat
 
RobboNJ said:
Freedom, thanks for the pic! That is exactly what I would want to do. There is a pipe shop that participates in all the boat shows near me, I'll reach out to them.
Click to expand...
I want to do the same, but only for flags. I'm a bit of a flag-whore. My only complaint about my Freedom is that the rocket launchers are on the sides. I prefer to fly flags from the top. I'd love to find a bolt-on solution.
 
Beyond A Wake said:
Well,well, that is an idea that is easily accommodated as an after market modification by an upholstery shop or similar. The zipper though has to be rugged strong and not clogging up by oxidation, so plastic most likely.
A good idea, easy to do and all you need is to mount rocker launchers high enough to clear the shade .
Click to expand...

Yes, but after market modification by an upholstery shop would require disassembly, possibly void the warranty, and add hundreds of dollars to a fairly simple factory modification.
 
Hmm.. Find it interesting that GW would box themselves in with either/or design. Usually they think things through to maximize option opportunities.
 
GW Performance Welding 609 569-9911
They are a sponsor here.....they are fast and know everything about GW's. I would use them again in a heartbeat.
 
The pic I posted above is GW Performance Welding although that's not my boat - just an application of rocket launcher with retractable sunshade. GW made a rocket launcher for my Gulfstream and yes, they were great!
 
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Yes, GWPerformancewelding is the shop I was referring to in Post #4. Nice to see some of their work in photos.
 
The GW performance welding product seems like the best solution. That being said unless your over 6ft tall being able to reach the rods in those holders in any seas is going to be difficult. To reach the center holders on my 305 I have to stand on the livewell or the drink cooler.
 
Drbatts, I understand your point. Luckily I'm 6'4". This is one of those times where height has it's avantages.
 
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