Cannot Remove Bolts on Cockpit Seat Hunter 260

[jimfrankelly]

I need to replace the hinges on the port seat of my 2002 Hunter 270 (same as Hunter 260). The bolts/screws will not budge. I do not know if they have a nut (that cannot be accessed) on the underside or if they were installed with 5200. Does anyone have any experience with changing these hinges ???

The reason I need to change the hinges is that the original hinges have been distorted ("stretched") & the seat is not being supported properly as it is sticking further into the cockpit. I have new hinges from Hunterowners.

 

[Fred]

Hey Jim... I can't help you with how to remove the screws but look forward to other's replies because I seem to have the same issue on my new-to-me H26. The lip of the seat cover does not land on the bumper and hence the seat is not properly supported.

 

[caverun]

I'm pretty sure the hinge screws thread into an aluminum plate embedded in the fiberglass- no nut on the other side. If you look at this drawing you will see the 4 metal plates for the hinges (and all the other deck metal):
http://www.marlow-hunter.com/export/Model-Information/260_1997_2005/260%20deck%20metal0001.pdf
As far as removing, there may be corrosion from dissimilar metals (SS and aluminum). You could try some penetrating oil if you can get it in there, and maybe an impact driver, but go easy, you dont want to snap the screw off.

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

thank you cave run for verifying. You might want to use penetrating oil for a week. You may have to use force but if it breaks like it did for me as a dealer, I had to put a punch in the middle, hit with hammer and then drill out. At that point, nut and bolt unless you can retap the hole for a larger bolt next size up.