Assembling your NautiSteps dock ladder is straightforward when you follow the right sequence. Follow this guide to learn how to build the side frames, installing the steps, and preparing the ladder for final tightening once it’s attached to the mounted base.
A few important notes before you begin:
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Do not fully tighten hardware early. Snug everything first, then do final tightening after the ladder is attached to the base.
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Pay attention to hardware orientation for a clean, consistent build.
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Some steps are easier with two people, especially when attaching the ladder to the base.
What You’ll Need
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NautiSteps ladder components and included hardware
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Basic hand tools (wrenches or sockets)
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A flat surface to work on (shop floor, driveway, or stable dock surface)
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A second person (recommended for the attachment step)
Step 1: Assemble the Two Side Frames
The ladder uses two side frames (left and right). Each side frame is made by joining an upper and lower frame rail.
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Join the upper and lower rails
Align the “puzzle” ends of the frame rails and slide them together.
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Add the splice plates
Position the splice plates over the joint and insert the carriage bolts.
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Start with the center bolts first
Install the center bolts to hold alignment, then add the remaining bolts.
Tighten only enough to hold the frame together. You want a little flexibility for step alignment.
Repeat this process for the second side frame.
Orientation tip: The carriage bolt heads should be on the inside of the assembled ladder frame.
Step 2: Install the Steps
Once the side frames are assembled, you’ll connect them with the steps.
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Flip the assembly upside down
Turning the ladder upside down on a flat surface makes it easier to line up holes and keep the steps square.
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Install the top step first
Attach the uppermost step and snug the hardware.
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Install the bottom step and add end caps
Next, install the lowest step.
Install the frame end caps where specified at the frame ends. -
Install remaining steps
Add the remaining steps, working inward after the top and bottom steps are in place. This helps keep the ladder aligned.
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Snug all step hardware
Keep everything secure, but save final tightening for later.
Step 3: Attach the Ladder to the Mounted Base
This is the point where the assembled ladder connects to the base and housing that are already mounted to the dock.
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Position the assembled ladder upside down with the upper end near the base mounting plates.
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With one person on each side, lift and slide the ladder frames onto the base mounting plates.
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Insert the specified carriage bolts through the upper frame and base plate.
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Add washers and Nylock nuts as directed.
Step 4: Final Tightening and Function Check
Once the ladder is secured to the base, go back and fully tighten all hardware, including:
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Splice plate bolts
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Step mounting bolts
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Base attachment hardware
Then perform a quick function test:
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Raise and lower the ladder slowly to confirm smooth movement.
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Use the tethered safety locking pin to secure the ladder in both raised (storage) and lowered (in-use) positions.
Common Assembly Mistakes to Avoid
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Tightening everything fully before the ladder is attached to the base
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Installing the ladder frame hardware with bolt heads facing outward
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Forgetting end caps on the frame ends
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Skipping the safety pin check after assembly
Assembly Checklist
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Side frames assembled and splice plates installed
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Carriage bolt heads facing inward
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Steps installed (top first, bottom second, then remaining)
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End caps installed where required
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Ladder attached to mounted base
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All hardware fully tightened after attachment
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Safety locking pin seats fully and functions properly
