Installing hardware on cabin roof

[Samwill557]

I wish to install some additional hardware on my 1994 Hunter H26 (port side rope clutch, port deck organizer, short genoa tracks). I've never installed or worked on fiberglass.

Is there a site, or someone, who can give directions.

For example, I suspect I need to drill through the glass/core/glass and bolt on underneath. But, I'm not sure. Do you fill the holes with stuff to avoid rot, etc.

help!

Sam

 

[peptobysmol]

Pick the smallest drill size that will allow you to insert the bolt. Speaking of bolts it is important to through bolt all your deck hardware. You must then get adequate backing for your application. You'll have to research what is recommended for each of your additions. I've seen many small cleats with only washers, larger ones get backing plates. Rounding off the backing plates is recommended because the plates don't have a single point of penetration if a heavy load is put on the hardware. Then use a barrier product like 3M 4200 to seal the hardware at the deck. Good luck with your endeavor.

 

[C Jones]

Sam, Follow all the above good advice. I have pics of this same job on my profile to look at. I just used large ss washers when I did my work for backing. I ordered 3/16 ss backing plates from Grauhauer and just recieved them to replace the large flat washers. Good luck and let us know how it turns out. Pics are nice. Charles

 

[DianaOfBurlington]

DON'T use silicone. Every rotten cored deck I have encountered was due to hardware added by owners who used inadequate (or no) bedding compound. The 4200 or 5200 answer is the right one.

 

[Alan]

When Hunter lays up the fiberglass for the deck they install aluminum plates in critical locations where hardware might be added. For example on the coachroof where rope clutches might be installed. To check for the presence of this material drill a small pilot hole in the location you select for the mounting hardware. If aluminum filings are present when drilling you do not need to through bolt. Drill and tap the appropriate size bolt into the aluminum plate. If aluminum filings are not present then through bolting will be required. Bedding compound must be used to prevent water intrusion in both cases.