C27--loose bow cleat

[Randy]

The C27 that I'm purchasing has a loose bow cleat on the port side. It appears that the underside is accessible by removing the wood trim panel fastened by screws at the far forward end of the v-berth. Is this the case?If access is relatively simple, I'd open up the panel and inspect/refasten the cleat. I'd appreciate any tips that could be shared!Randy

 

[Richard R]

cleats are easy

Yes, access is as you describe. I would remove the cleat completely and rebed it with polysulfide before refastening, to prevent water from entering the plywood deck core. If space allows, you might put larger washers under the nuts to help distribute the load. On my C27 the bow cleats were originally backed by two small washers, which concentrate the stress over much too small an area. Good luck!