Through deck fittings

[Dan Tobin]

I've read Don Casey's book on Sailboat Hull and Deck Repair. He recommends reaming out through deck holes (using a bent nail chucked in a drill), and then filling the hole with epoxy and re-drilling after the epoxy cures. The idea is that the hole is now sealed off from the deck's balsa core. The deck becomes waterproof in spite of the holes drilled through it. It sounds like a "no-brainer", but am curious if others have performed this maintenance. I am planning on removing all of my deck fittings before I launch in the spring to make this modification. The only exception would be my toe rails, as I can't get to their fasteners.Comments/experiences would be appreciated.Thanks,Dan

 

[Paul Palmer]

Through- bolted fasteners

DanThis method is also described in West Systems Fiberglass Boat Repair & Maintenance Book. It sounds like a great idea. I think it will probably turn into quite a job. Lets us know how it goes. I cut a hole in the deck of my 77 OD25 a little back of the forestay chain plate for a deck pipe for the anchor rode and the deck was cored with plywood. Do you know if plywood is use for the core material just at the bow or were some boats cored with plywood instead of balsa?Thanks,Paul Palmer

 

[Justin - O'day Owners' Web]

I did this to most of the fittings on my boat

I discovered that my newly purchased Catalina 25 had a number of deck leaks when I first used it this past spring. I spent most of the summer chasing down possible sources and trying to seal them, to no avail. When we hauled the boat this fall, we removed every single fitting from the decks and cockpit except for the screws holding the rubrail to the boat. For anything that gets worked, like winches, cleats, etc. I did the epoxy fill trick. So far, no leaks but time will tell the tale.Justin - O'day Owners' Web

 

[Don Evans]

My Deck Fittings Are Due

I also will be following Don Caseys' method of re-bedding my deck fixtures. I have over 20 fittings on the deck, not including portlights, hatches and handrails, so its going to be a massive job. The other term for this method is called "potting". My fittings were done about 10 years ago, using a polysulphide caulk. It has held up remarkably well over the decade. I will probably bed using the same, but first to ream and epoxy that hole.Don