Transom straps for '99 Sportster

[MalibuLX3]

Hey everyone, I tried searching but couldn't find anything relevant. I've got a 1999 Sportster LX and I'm looking for some transom straps that fit correctly. The problem is the distance between the transom eye bolt and the trailer is very small, approximatively 12" and all the straps I've found have a minimum length larger than 12". I end up tying one end off at the trailer and using the hook on the other end to attach to the boat and then cranking down the strap. I would like something a little more convenient.

I've read some of the controversy about not even using transom straps, but I definitely want them.

So what are you guys with around the same year Sportsters using for your transom straps?

Thanks

-Curtis

[DONTW8]

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/links/link.jsp;jsessionid=GLVN0EH0VMKJPLAQBBJSCNVMCAEFIIWE?id=0001938011073a&type=product&cmCat=perf&rid=0987654321&cm_mmc=Performics-_-CSE-_-nextag-_-0001938011073a&mr:referralID=d7093a5b-7dbb-11df-8652-0026b958ace7&_requestid=154238

[MalibuLX3]

I've seen those before but I was hoping to find something not quite as expensive. Any other ideas? I know you guys with Sportsters are tying down the transoms, right?

[DONTW8]

If you are willing to drill your trailer frame you can install some 3/8" eye bolts so you can get a snug fir with a cheaper strap.

http://www.google.com/products?hl=en&q=3/8%22+eye+bolts&rlz=1R2ADRA_enUS342&um=1&ie=UTF-8&ei=ykchTOyaJpzqnQeI3dFu&sa=X&oi=product_result_group&ct=title&resnum=3&ved=0CDcQrQQwAg

You will have to crawl under your boat to attach the hook though.

The ones that I pictured above that mount permanently work best with your swim pad situation.

Edited June 22, 2010 by DONTW8