Can I DIY wakeboard tower installation?

If you're an avid wakeboarder, you know how important a wakeboard tower can be for your riding experience. A wakeboard tower can improve the height and quality of your jumps, as well as make it easier to perform tricks. However, when it comes to installing a wakeboard tower onto your boat, you may be faced with the question of whether to install it yourself or let a professional handle the installation. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of both options to help you make an informed decision.
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Installing a Wakeboard Tower Yourself

Pros:

1. Cost: One of the biggest benefits of installing a wakeboard tower yourself is the cost savings. You'll avoid the labor costs of hiring a professional installer, which can be quite expensive.  We have seen installations offered as low as $300 to as high as $1,000 depending on the complexity of the boat.
2. Satisfaction: Installing a wakeboard tower yourself can be a satisfying project, especially if you enjoy working on your boat. It can give you a sense of accomplishment and pride to see the finished product and know that you did it yourself.
3. Flexibility: When you install a wakeboard tower yourself, you have more flexibility in terms of when you do it and how you do it. You can work at your own pace and take breaks as needed, which can be beneficial if you have other obligations or commitments.

Cons:

1. Time: Installing a wakeboard tower yourself can be a time-consuming process, especially if you're not experienced with boat modifications. It may take several hours or even days to complete the installation, which can be a disadvantage if you have a busy schedule.
2. Complexity: Installing a wakeboard tower yourself can be a complex process, especially if you're not familiar with the specific type of tower you're installing. If you're not confident in your ability to handle the installation, it may be better to let a professional take care of it.
3. Risk of Damage: There's also a risk of damaging your boat if you don't install the wakeboard tower correctly. If you don't have experience with boat modifications or don't follow the instructions carefully, you could end up causing damage to your boat or the tower.
4. Tooling: If you do not have the tooling to install the wakeboard tower, you will have to borrow it or buy it.  The tools include a drill, drill bit set, sockets, wrenches (open-end and box-end), allen wrenches, measuring tape, and masking tape. (FYI if you do not own most of these tools already, we probably recommend a professional installation).

Letting a Professional Install a Wakeboard Tower
Pros:

1. Experience and Expertise: A professional installer will have the experience and expertise needed to install the wakeboard tower correctly. They'll know how to handle any challenges that come up during the installation process, which can give you peace of mind.
2. Time: Hiring a professional to install your wakeboard tower can save you a lot of time. They'll be able to complete the installation quickly and efficiently, which can be beneficial if you have a busy schedule.
3. Warranty: Many professional installers offer a warranty on their work, which can protect you in case anything goes wrong with the installation. This can be a valuable benefit if you want to avoid any potential repair costs down the line.

Cons:

1. Cost: The biggest disadvantage of hiring a professional to install your wakeboard tower is the cost. You'll need to pay for their labor, which can be quite expensive depending on the installer you choose.
2. Limited Flexibility: When you hire a professional installer, you'll need to work around their schedule. You may need to wait a few days or even weeks before they can come out to install the tower, which can be a disadvantage if you're eager to start using it.
3. Trust: When you hire a professional installer, you'll need to trust that they'll do a good job. If you choose an inexperienced or unreliable installer, you could end up with a poorly installed tower that doesn't work as intended.

Conclusion
In the end, whether you choose to install a wakeboard tower yourself or hire a professional comes down to your experience, skill level, and budget. If you have experience with boat modifications and are confident in your ability to handle the installation, and you're looking to save money, then installing a wakeboard tower yourself may be the right choice for you. However, if you're not experienced with boat modifications, or you want the peace of mind that comes with a professional installation, then hiring a professional installer may be the better option.
Ultimately, both options have their pros and cons, and the choice comes down to your personal preferences and circumstances. Regardless of which option you choose, a wakeboard tower can be a valuable addition to your boat, and can greatly enhance your wakeboarding experience.

At Make A Wake Marine, we've found that approximately 85% of our wakeboard towers are installed by the end user as a DIY project. However, we want to remind our customers that we're always here to help if you have any questions or concerns during the installation process. Additionally, having a friend or helper to assist you can make the job easier and safer.