The Monster Tower MTK is designed for affordability, adjustability, and ease of installation. The system comprises four primary components: a Top Section, Right Leg, Left Leg, and Adjustable Mounting Bases. The MTK allows for customization to fit various boat widths through pivot points in the Top Section, and legs can be locked into position via drilling into the tower itself. Users can configure the tower to fold either to the front or back of the boat using Quick Release Knobs. Proper installation, including deck reinforcement, is critical due to the significant forces exerted during wakeboarding activities. Regular maintenance, specifically torque checks on bolts, is also recommended.
Components of the MTK System
The Monster Tower MTK system consists of four main components, facilitating a customizable installation process. These components are:
- Top Section: This section features pivot points that enable the legs to adjust inward and outward, accommodating different boat beam widths.
- Right Leg: One of the two supporting legs of the tower structure.
- Left Leg: The second supporting leg, mirroring the functionality of the Right Leg.
- Adjustable Mounting Bases: These bases provide multiple pivot points, allowing for mounting the tower in various locations on the boat, including the top and sides, and at different angles. Two bases include Quick Release Knobs, while two utilize Pivot Bolts.
Installation Considerations and Requirements
Installation of the MTK requires careful attention to detail and adherence to specific guidelines to ensure structural integrity and prevent damage to the boat. A critical aspect of the installation process is reinforcing the boat’s deck. Monster Tower documentation indicates that forces on arches can exceed 300 ft./lbs. under normal wakeboarding conditions, and dynamic forces can reach 10 Gs during maneuvers like “double-ups.” These forces are transferred to the boat’s deck.
The documentation explicitly states that Monster Tower requires reinforcement to be installed under the deck by a qualified installer. This installer must assess the specific mounting situation of the boat, as every boat, mounting location, and configuration is unique. A fiberglass professional should evaluate the mounting points to ensure the generated forces do not compromise the deck or other areas of the boat. Monster Tower assumes no responsibility for damages resulting from improper installation or lack of reinforcement.
Folding Configurations
The MTK tower offers two folding options: front folding and back folding. The documentation recommends front folding as the preferred configuration. The Quick Release Knobs are located at the back of the tower when configured for front folding. The choice of folding direction is determined by the user during installation.
Mounting Base Features
The Adjustable Mounting Bases are a key feature of the MTK, offering versatility in mounting locations. These bases have multiple pivot points, allowing for installation on the top, sides, and at various angles of the boat. The bases are equipped with either Quick Release Knobs or Pivot Bolts.
Bimini Top Compatibility
The MTK is compatible with several Monster Tower Bimini top models. Compatibility depends on the version of the MTK tower. Towers built before March 20, 2014, typically feature a 55" header and are designed for the MTK Bimini Installation. Towers built after this date have 61" headers and accommodate the MTKv2 Bimini installation. A version guide is available to help determine which MTK version is owned. Specific Bimini models include:
- Cargo Bimini Rack (small)
- Cargo Bimini Rack (medium)
- MT1 Over the Top Bimini
- MT2 Over the Top Bimini
- MTE Over the Top Bimini
- MTK V1 (purchased before 4/14) Over the Top Bimini
- MTK V2 Over the Top Bimini
Instructions for folding the MTK with a Bimini top are also available.
Torque Specifications and Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the continued safe operation of the MTK tower. The documentation specifies a 30-hour service interval that includes torque checks on all hardware. Specifically:
- M10 and M12 bolts should be torqued to 22 ft-lbs.
- M8 bolts should be checked for secure fit into the deck.
If any rattling or noise is detected while using the tower, all hardware should be checked for tightness, particularly the heim joint jam nuts. If the noise persists, contacting Monster Tower support is recommended before further use, as it may indicate an incorrect installation.
Accessory Compatibility
The MTK tower is designed to be compatible with various Monster Tower accessories. The tower has a universal fit for boats with a beam of 76-102". For boats with circular pipe towers having a 3-inch diameter, a rack with a 3-inch bracket can be ordered by contacting Monster Tower directly.
Mounting Solutions for Curved Surfaces
Monster Tower has addressed the challenge of mounting to curved boat surfaces with the development of “Monster Paws.” These mounting pads contour to the curve of the boat and reduce stress at the mounting holes, providing additional protection to the boat’s structure.
Installation Tools and Support
The installation of the Monster Tower requires a drill, drill bits, and an adjustable wrench. All other necessary hardware and Allen wrenches are included with the tower. While socket wrenches are recommended, an adjustable wrench can also be used. Monster Tower provides support via phone (877-778-6937) and email ([email protected]). Customers can also find installation guides and support information on the MonsterTower.com website. For those preferring professional installation, Monster Tower has established relationships with authorized dealers who can provide installation services and additional accessories.
Anti-Seize Lubricant
The documentation emphasizes the importance of using the provided anti-seize lubricant (contained in a foil packet) on all bolts during installation.
Important Safety Note
The documentation includes a warning that Monster Tower is not responsible for damages resulting from improper installation or failure to reinforce the boat’s deck.
Conclusion
The Monster Tower MTK offers a customizable and relatively straightforward solution for adding a wakeboard tower to a boat. Successful installation hinges on proper deck reinforcement by a qualified professional, adherence to torque specifications during maintenance, and careful consideration of the folding configuration and Bimini top compatibility. Utilizing the provided resources and support channels from Monster Tower is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.