Do new sleats need backing plate ...

[John Paoletti]

I'm planning on replacing my current clam cleats on my 94' 23.5 with better cleats. Question, since the new cleats don't match up to the current mounting holes, how do I attach them. Can they be screwed directly into the fiberglass, or do they need a backing plate? Or is there a better method? Thanks for the help ..... again. This is a great web sight.

 

[Rick Webb]

Spinlock PX Cleats

I put Spinlock PX Cleats on mine and they went righ into the same holes. There is an aluminum backing plate molded into the boat just drill and tap the holes and fill the others in.

 

[Dave Condon]

Drill pilot hole first

John,Drill first a small pilot hole to see if you have an aluminum backing plate that is embedded in the fiberglass which you would be able to be drilled and tapped. If not, I suggest a backing plate; otherwise, your screw will pullout or do some damage of sorts.Crazy dave

 

[Steven Gautney]

Spinlock PXs work great . . .

I followed Rick Webb's lead on replacing my cam cleats with Spinlock PXs . . .they fit into the same holes as the originals (you have to enlarge the hole in the PXs to make th 1/4 inch screws fit). Point is it was an easy installation and they work very . . .very well. They are a huge improvement over the factory issue. No backing plates needed . . .