Stripped screws

[john6206]

Hi everyone,

Somehow I'm sure this has been covered before, but I couldn't find anything.

The boat I bought last fall as several stripped screws. The factory nameplate and the hinges for the fuel locker are the worst. I think it was an ongoing concern for the previous owner, because the screws are all mismatched.

My thought is to drill out the holes to get clean edges, fill with west system epoxy mixed with cab-o-sil, hopefully achieve a smooth finish, spray paint, re-drill, get some matching stainless steel screws.

Does that sound like the right approach? Is there anything you would add?

Thanks,

John

 

[kloudie1]

Great article in latest Practical Sailor.. the tests showed that enlarging, cleaning the hole out and stuffing with fiberglass and epoxy is the right answer.. Worth the price of the magazine..
Another technique by forum member Maine Sail :
https://marinehowto.com/sealing-deck-penetrations-to-prevent-core-rot/
Check out all the other great info on his DIY site..

 

[john6206]

Wow - lots of information. Thanks!

 

[TGMarrs]

You can buy a drill bit set for removing stripped screws for about $20 at Home Depot. I have one it removes stripped Screws quick and easy like magic. I even used it last week to remove a scre where the head broke completely off.

It works by having a special drill end where you drill in a little bit (in reverse), and then flip the bit to the extraction end where it fits into and catches the special drilled in part you just made and locks in place allowing you to remove the screw.

Good luck!

 

[john6206]

That's the opposite of my problem.

I have a screw loose. In fact, several screws.

 

[kloudie1]

join the club, John.. many sailors have loose screws !