TOPIC: Help: Proper bedding of cleats / deck hardware?

I am nearing the end of repairing the hull and deck of my G3. I have had to repair spider cracks at the location of every piece of deck hardware. I read a while back on Jamil's Glass Clown Boats, about proper bedding techniques. Unfortunately, Jamil's site is unavailable while he rebuilds it. I recall the technique, but not the recommended material to use.

What do you guys recommend to use for bedding cleats, hardware, grab-rails, etc.?

I don't want to be chasing future spider cracks!

Thanks in advance,

Dean

What I do is use ss machine screws of whatever size hole is appropriate and flat washers and nyloks. What causes cracks is over-tightening of screws usually. You need to be careful with nyloks, just to snug them, not overly tighten them. Plus I use 3M 4200 for sealing/bedding on things I might want to remove in the future, and 3M 5200 for stuff that isn't going to get removed. If there's now wood base under the hardware, I generally will try to add some, as it effectively spreads out the impact of the fastener.

Frank

We usually drill the hole and then counter-sink it and this should keep the fiberglass from cracking.

Haynes Fiberglass

Thanks guys,

Yep, I did install 3/4" backing wood at all the locations (bow handle, cleats, chocks), using fairing compound so there was a good connection between the wood and the underside of the deck. I do want to be able to remove these in future... so i guess 4200.

Counter sinking the holes sounds like a really good idea.

I also understand that I should just snug the bolts until the bedding compound sets up before tighten the bolts... does this sound right?

Dean

"I also understand that I should just snug the bolts until the bedding compound sets up before tighten the bolts... does this sound right?"

yes your right ,it will allow the compound to set and get a little more firm,if you dont wait,it will just squeeze out and there wont be much bedding material left,john

Great thanks, John. That's what I am going to do then.

Dean