Identify Attwood Boat Ladders: Rope, Platform & Transom Styles

Attwood boarding ladders come in very different configurations. A hanging rope ladder, a swim platform with a built-in telescoping ladder, and a removable transom ladder cannot be substituted simply because their steps look similar. Identify the mounting structure, step arrangement and exact model number before planning a replacement or new installation.

Three Attwood boarding-ladder types

Attwood ladder identification by manufacturer part number

What to confirm before choosing a ladder

1. Look at the attachment structure. The 11865-4 needs a suitable, strong attachment point for its rope loop. The 19536 is a mounted swim-platform assembly, while the 19812 relies on a specific quick-release transom bracket.
2. Check the boat's freeboard and boarding position. The removable 19812 is intended for low-freeboard boarding. Check the height from the water to the mounting area and the ladder's reach when deployed.
3. Allow room for storage. The 19536 ladder telescopes under its platform; the 19812 ladder detaches at the bracket. Neither stores like a hanging rope ladder.
4. Compare the physical dimensions. The 19536 platform measures approximately 23½ × 11¼ inches (length × width). Its two-step ladder is a separate part of the assembly. The 19812 has an approximately 28 × 13-inch footprint; check the exact mounting diagram and transom clearance.
5. Inspect brackets, steps and fasteners. If replacing older hardware, look for corrosion, deformation, broken treads, rope wear or damaged quick-release components. Secure mounting is especially important for boarding from the water.

Choosing a replacement instead of a new installation

A replacement ladder should match the existing transom's construction and hardware arrangement, not only the step count. For 19536, examine the swim platform, mounting angle, stainless wraparound rail and support rail. For 19812, identify whether the original quick-release bracket remains intact. For 11865-4, confirm the rope and each tread are undamaged and the attachment point is appropriate for the intended use.

Attwood ladder product references

These cards open the matching listings on UsedRVParts.ca. Check each item's live condition and availability before ordering. This store carries brand-new items as well as used RV parts; eligible used inventory may be viewed and collected in Kelowna by appointment.

Attwood 11865-4

Five-step hanging rope boarding ladder

11¾-inch-wide treads; no handrails

Check part details and condition

Attwood 19536

Swim platform with sliding two-step ladder

Platform 23½ × 11¼ in; left-side rail

Check part details and condition

Attwood 19812

Removable angled two-step transom ladder

Low-freeboard applications; 400 lb rating

Check part details and condition

Related marine hardware references

For other boating equipment, see our Attwood transom saver identification guide or the Attwood marine cleat comparison. These cover distinct mounting hardware and are not substitutes for a boarding ladder or ladder bracket.