Adding a port side deck organizer and line clutch

[cbsailor]

I have a 1988 Hunter 33.5. I'd like to install a second deck organizer, double line clutch (and maybe a second winch) on the cabin top port side to bring two additional lines back to the cockpit. I want to mirror the factory installation of the line organizer and clutch on the starboard side. Does anyone know if there are embedded aluminum plates that could be drilled and tapped to mount these or would adding these items portside require through bolts with backing plates.

 

[s sauer]

Imbeded Plates

I've Found imbeded aluminum plates at the coresponding port side line organizer locations, cabintop winch locations but don't recal if they were also at the base of the mast for turning blocks on a 1986 Hunter 28.5. Pre dril a small pilot hole and look for the aluminum shavings; then drill & tap for the fastener sizes. I also thru bolted the mast base turning blocks and the winches, but not the line organizers where the fasteners are loaded in shear. Use stainless washers and acorn nuts for the winches and mast base turning blocks for strength and interior head liner aesthetics.

 

[Paul Akers]

Save a Hole?

You may possibly use a "stacked" line organizer. I have seen two-level organizers sold and would only require a longer ss anchoring screw rather that drilling, and looking for a metal plate. To be sure about a plate, I'd call hunter with the HIN to see if they have the records.

 

[cbsailor]

Portside already stacked

Thanks for the replies. The port side is already a stacked double organizer with 4 lines led aft. I contacted Hunter tech support and was told if there wasn't a raised "embossed" area there probably wasn't an embedded plate. On my boat there is no embossed or raised area for the organizer, even on the starboard side which appears to be factory installed. Think I might try using a stud finder or metal detector and see if maybe I get any indications.

 

[s sauer]

Photo Forum

Check out the Photo Forum under Hunter 33.5: find 2007-05-15 Hunter 33.5 Wellage by Alan Adam. It clearly shows how they did a second double stack organizer. You may elect to contact that Hunter Owner off line; however, there is either plywood or plywood with an aluminum plate inside the deck at that location. An initial 3/16" pilot hole will tell whether you need to thru drill or just drill and tap thru the plate and not he headliner. I would think the winch and sheet stoper mounting is a lot more load sensitive than the line organizer's horizontal loading.