Boat capacity plates and decals are important safety features that help to ensure that boats are not overloaded. They typically display the maximum number of people that can be safely carried on the boat, as well as the weight capacity.
If your boat’s capacity plate or decal is damaged or missing, it is important to replace it as soon as possible. You can purchase replacement capacity plates and decals from a variety of sources, including marine supply stores, online retailers, and boat manufacturers.
When choosing a replacement capacity plate or decal, it is important to make sure that it is the correct size and style for your boat. You should also make sure that it is made from a durable material that will withstand the elements.
Replacing your boat’s capacity plate or decal is a simple and inexpensive way to help ensure the safety of your boat and its passengers.
Here are some tips for replacing your boat’s capacity plate or decal:
- Check the boat’s owner’s manual: The owner’s manual will typically specify the size and style of capacity plate or decal that is required for your boat.
- Measure the existing plate or decal: This will help you to ensure that you purchase a replacement that is the correct size.
- Choose a durable material: The capacity plate or decal will be exposed to the elements, so it is important to choose a material that will withstand wear and tear.
- Install the replacement plate or decal: Follow the instructions that come with the replacement plate or decal to ensure that it is installed correctly.
By following these tips, you can easily and safely replace your boat’s capacity plate or decal.
If your boat is like most, the capacity plate is one of the first things to fade or become damaged. Here’s an easy way to replace it without having to re-register your boat.
If you have a boat, you know that there is a capacity plate somewhere on the vessel. This tells you how many people the boat can safely hold. But what happens when that plate gets damaged or goes missing?
You’ll need to get a replacement capacity plate from the manufacturer or an authorized dealer. The process is pretty simple, but it’s important to make sure that you get the right size and style of capacity plate for your boat.
Once you have the new capacity plate, all you need to do is attach it in the same spot as the old one.
Make sure that it’s firmly affixed so that it won’t come loose in case of rough waters. And that’s it! You’re ready to hit the open water with your newly updated boat capacity information.
Credit: greatgrady
What Happens If Your Boat Doesn’T Have a Capacity Plate?
If your boat doesn’t have a capacity plate, it’s likely that it wasn’t built after 1972. Prior to 1972, boats didn’t need to have capacity plates. However, since 1972, all newly built boats are required to have a capacity plate affixed by the builder.
The capacity plate must show the maximum weight or person that the boat can safely carry.
If you’re caught operating a boat without a capacity plate, you could be fined by the U.S. Coast Guard. In addition, your insurance company may not provide coverage if you’re involved in an accident and it’s determined that your boat was overloaded at the time.
To avoid these potential problems, it’s best to make sure your boat has a capacity plate if it was built after 1972. You can typically find the capacity plate near the helm station or on the bulkhead near where passengers would enter the boat.
Do I Need a Capacity Plate on My Boat?
If you’re boat is larger than 16 feet long and/or has a motor, then it must have a capacity plate. The capacity plate lists the maximum weight and number of people that your boat can safely carry. You’ll find the capacity plate on the inside of the hull, near where the stern (back) of the boat meets the gunwale (side).
Where is the Capacity Plate on a Pontoon Boat?
If you’re looking for the capacity plate on a pontoon boat, you’ll find it on the stern (back) of the boat. The capacity plate will list essential information about the maximum weight and number of people that the pontoon boat can safely hold.
When loading up your pontoon boat for a day out on the water, be sure to check the capacity plate first.
Overloading your pontoon boat can cause serious damage and put everyone onboard at risk. Stay within the limits listed on the capacity plate, and have a great time!
What Does a Capacity Plate Indicate on a Boat?
A capacity plate indicates the maximum weight and/or persons the boat can safely carry. The plate is usually located on the stern (back) of the boat.
Understanding Your Capacity Plate
Boat Capacity Plate Replacement Canada
If your boat was built before 1998, it likely has an old-style capacity plate that needs to be replaced. The good news is, the process is relatively straightforward and can be done by following these simple steps:
1. Locate your boat’s capacity plate.
This should be located on the stern of the vessel, near the waterline. If you can’t find it there, check inside the cabin or in the engine compartment.
2. Once you’ve found the capacity plate, take a photo of it or make a sketch so you know what it looks like.
This will come in handy when ordering a replacement from a marine supply store.
3. Order a new capacity plate from a marine supply store or online retailer. Be sure to specify that you need one for a Canadian vessel – they’re slightly different than those used in other countries.
4. Install the new capacity plate in the same location as the old one. Make sure it’s securely fastened so it doesn’t come loose and end up in the water!
Conclusion
If your boat is more than 20 years old, it’s time to check the capacity plate to see if it needs to be replaced. The capacity plate is the metal plate that shows how much weight the boat can safely hold. Over time, the capacity plate can become corroded and difficult to read.
If this happens, you’ll need to replace it with a new one. To do this, you’ll need to measure the length and width of your boat and find a capacity plate that matches these dimensions. You can purchase a capacity plate at most marine supply stores.
Once you have the new plate, simply attach it to the side of your boat in place of the old one.
Related: Under Federal Law, Which Type of Boat Must Have a Capacity Plate
