Ideal gaps for chain plate openings

[Jim Madden]

I'm planning on rebedding my chain plates, but have noticed that the holes in the deck have exposted foam core. I want to seal off the core and renew the screw holes by using expoxy. In preping the holes should there be alittle or a lot of gap between the chain plate and the hole in which to fill with Life Calk? I imagine that there should be a gap to allow the Life Calk to stretch and move without tearing. As a second question is it better to use self tapping screws to attach the cover plate or to tap the epoxy and use machine screws?Thanks, Jim

 

[Grace L. Schmidt]

Re-bedding chain plates

You are on the right track. Too small of an opening will prevent you from applying and adequate amount of sealant for the job.With regard to the screws, I'm not sure that it matters which way you do it. Not being a "screw maven" I would think it is a matter of preference.