PhatBudde Towers(XPT)

[Aerdb21]

Does anyone have a PhatBudde (XPT) on their 21i? I was just wondering if I could have some input about the tower before I made my decision on purchasing one. I would like to know how stiff and strong it is. Thanks, Adam

[whitlock87]

XPT

I have the fold down version of the extreme phat tower ( XPT ) on my switch V.
I love it. The bottom racks hold the boards even at high speeds, the top racks work as good as most clamps. There are only two things I do not like about it.

1) If you plan on folding it takes at least two people but three makes it much easer, and the powder coat chips at the joints.

2) If you plan on wiring it, you will need to run the wire in and out of the tubing in four location. some tower only requires two.

I have pulled riders over 300lbs with no problems.
Just make sure all your bolts are nice and tight.

But over all I think it looks better then most tower you will see out there.
And in the long run isn’t that what counts.

If you get it and plan on having it wired, either have PhatBuddy do it or ask a lot of question first. I got really close to making a big mistake with mine.

Enjoy
David

[Aerdb21]

Thanks a lot for the responses. The powder coating chips? What do you mean that you have to have the wiring go in and out in 4 locations? Explain the board racks on the top, are you saying that they cannot hold boards at higher speeds? Thanks, Adam

[flackpack]

I have the XPT on my 22V, and it is really simple to raise and lower by myself. I can now lower the tower and put the boat into the garage in a matter of 5 minutes with no one around.

The Powder coating is really quite durable, but in the inside of the joints, the paint is thin and sometimes comes off. This is fine as it is aluminum, and won't rust, but when folded, you can sometimes see where the paint is no longer on the joint if you are really searching for it.

The upper board rack is smaller than the lower, and a regular wakeboard won't fit in the rack with the bindings between the forks. This is fine, as you just place the forks behind the rear binding, and strap it down. I've never had an issue with the boards moving, even through double ups!

As far a wireing the tower, the upper and lower tubes are built seperate. This forces you to enter and exit the tower legs near the joints with your wire. Very few towers do this differently, and a good installer will make it almost invisible.

The new XPT towers are larger diameter tubing for less sway. While towing, my 1 7/8 tower seems to sway quite a bit, but while boarding it is sturdy as a rock. The thing I really like is the height - I can walk under the bimini, speakers and tower without bending over. This is significant, as I can't do this in my buddy's Nautique or Malibu with factory towers.

[flackpack]

The Tower does look good on the boats

[whitlock87]

I agree with Flack pack on all issues but lower the tower.
When you take of the two supports they are still locked to the tower with the bungee.
You need someone to hold them or risk hitting you boat.
When I lower my tower it just taps my windshield. and have someone to place something there really helps.

[cmb22V]

I went from a Phat Budde to a Monster and couldn't be happier. I only changed because that was what was on the new boat, but if I had a blank boat I would go with the Monster for sure. Just food for thought.

[Aerdb21]

Thanks for the replies. I was also considering a New Dimensions tower. The one that fits like an OEM tower anyone have one of these or know anything about them. Thanks, It's between a PhatBudde and a New Dimensions. Adam

[mike smith]

THE PHAT TOWER IS EASY TO FOLD DOWN IF YOU DON'T TAKE THE SUPPORT LEGS COMPLETELY OFF. THE PROPER PROCEEDURE IS TO TAKE THE LOWER HANDLE COMPLETELY OFF, THE UPPER JOINT IS A SQUARE JOINT SO ONLY SEPERATE THE JOINT FAR ENOUGH TO SWING THE SUPPORT ARM IN THEN RETIGHTEN. IF DONE THIS WAY THE SUPPORT LEG WILL BE PARALLEL WITH THE TOP OF THE TOWER.

[Flying Tiger]

We're probably going to the larger dia tower on our 22iR.
Calling Phatt Buddie, one gets different storys from different people that answer the phone.
But at the boat show we were finally able to get the straight scoop and pin down specifics on upgrading to the larger dia tubing tower.