Clutz needs help reseating mooring cleat.

[Armando Lopez]

Due to some unusually low water and high winds recently, my left rear mooring cleat pulled right out of the hull. I suspect the upward strain was too much for the cleat to sustain. In any case, I've never done any work like this before. So, anyone with any info about how to re-bed a mooring cleat or with related experience to share, please send it my way. thank you

 

[Steve Dion]

Should have a backing plate.

Armando:These cleats should have a backing plate. When you reinstall it be sure to put a stainless steel plate under the deck. The plate should be as large as practical to spread the load. If there is not enough room in the area you can use some large S.S. fender washers but a plate is preferable. Use some high quality sealant like 3M-4200 or Life Caulk. You may want to use a pencil to trace the area where the cleat attaches so you can apply caulk on the deck. Also be sure to put caulk in the holes. When you refasten the cleat do not turn the screws but only slightly snug up the nuts on the screws (just a little more than finger tight). Let this sit for an hour or two. Then come back and tighten down with the proper snuggness. This will allow the caulking to set up a little and will not squeeze it all out of the joint, creating a more water tight seal.As a note, do you know what the cleat was fastened to and how it was fastened? If the bolt holes have been ripped out you may need some additional surgery.

 

[LaDonna Bubak - CatalinaOwners]

What he said

Steve gave a really good description of what to do. On another note, this is a pretty basic maintenance item so if you're still unclear how to do it, you might think about buying a good boat maintenance book. There's a ton out there