masking off
A good way to re-install most fittings is to use masking tape, preferrably the low stick type so you can remove it easier later. Tape off the area so that it extends well beyond the point of contact. Dry fit your pieces to the boat, and using a razor knife or exacto, trace the outline of your fitting. Remove the fitting, then remove the tape from the point of contact, leaving the outer area tape in place. Apply your bedding compound to the fitting, or boat, and put the fitting into place. gently tighten the screws to pull the fitting against the boat, but don't fully tighten it. After waiting for the amount of time the directions say, finish tightening the screws. Take your razor knife, and carefully trace around the fitting again, cutting thru the bead of dried compound. Pull up the tape and you should have a neatly attached fitting. The excess compound will be on the tape, not your boat. On fittings that have exposed screw heads, put a little compound on the shaft of the screw, set in place. Put the washer and nut on and slightly tighten the nut only. Do not turn the screw. When the compound is set, tighten the nut some more. Do not turn the screw, or you will break the seal and risk having a leak.