Butyl tape with no nuts

Jun 7, 2004
36
Catalina 320 Middle River, MD
I need to rebed a SS hand rail on our C320. It is held by 3 bolts thru the deck into threaded holes in the hand rail - no nuts. I want to use butyl tape; but, not sure how to approach. I can't wrap the bolts with tape as I would do if there were nuts to turn. Is there a way to do this with butyl tape?
 
Feb 6, 1998
11,701
Canadian Sailcraft 36T Casco Bay, ME
I need to rebed a SS hand rail on our C320. It is held by 3 bolts thru the deck into threaded holes in the hand rail - no nuts. I want to use butyl tape; but, not sure how to approach. I can't wrap the bolts with tape as I would do if there were nuts to turn. Is there a way to do this with butyl tape?
*Get two people

*Push the bolts through the beveled deck to full insert depth

*Wrap a long butyl cone around each bolt (almost to end of threads) and really knead it into the threads

*Align hand rail over bolts and get each one started

*Tighten thenm evenly a bit at a time until snug

*Let Bed-It Tape displace

*Snug again

*Peel away excess when fully tight
 
Jun 7, 2004
36
Catalina 320 Middle River, MD
Worked like a charm

I posted the question because of prior experience with butyl tape on other bedding project where I was careful not to turn the bolt after loaded with butyl. Hence, I was concerned about attempting a bedding where the bolt went directly into the threaded fixture. Captain Maine Sail's quick response provided me the answer needed to proceed with this project.

I'm happy to report that the project was completed yesterday and was a complete success with the help of my Admiral Pattie.

Thanks, Maine Sail for all the help you have provided the sailing community.