Stern Rail Loose Screws

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Arturo DeVitalis

Need advice on how to deal with two port side screws (ladder side of the stern rail) that no longer will hold fast. Screws are OK - problem is the holes are galled out from previous owner and his fix isn't holding. Tried longer screws but they didn't hold very long and the problem is back again.
 
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Doug T.

Screws into...?

What aren't the screws holding to? Are these holes into the steel rails, or through the steel rails into the hull? If the first, you're going to have to tap bigger holes into the rail. If the second, you could drill out the holes in the hull with a much bigger size, fill with epoxy, and then redrill the right size for the screws. (Better yet, use bolts if possible.)
 
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Rick Webb

Easy Solution

Climb down into the basement (that is what the kids call it) with a couple of 1/4 X 20 locknuts and washers and put them on the other side of those loose screws. If you do not have someone to help tighten them you can attach a pair of vice grips to the nuts and climb back out to tighten them yourself.
 
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Steven Gautney

Go with Rick's solution . . .

I installed my stern rails in a similar fashion and have not had any problem.
 
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Rick Webb

I'll Even Help

If you take me sailing I'll come hold the wrench on the other side. Some day I am going to sail my boat to Pensacola, whenever I am there I sure miss my boat.
 
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Arturo DeVitalis

More loose screw details

The SCREWS ( not bolts) go through the stern rail through the fibreglass into what appears to be the plywood core - If I drill a hole are you saying it will come through into the "basement" and that there is enough room to fasten a nut? do you have to be a contortionist with rubber arms to get this done?
 
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Rick Webb

Do Not Drill Any Holes

The screws go all the wat through the transom and can be seen from inside. It is a little tight in there but even I can manage to get my hands on them so unless you are built like an NFL Lineman it is doable. Pulling out the cushions may give you some more wiggle room.
 
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