Bow Rail Replacement

[dsiekman]

My bow rail was hit by something (prior to me owning it) and has a bend that has always annoyed me. I am considering taking it off and trying to straighten it. However, I found that it has lock nuts which are not accessible without removing the rub rail and separating the cap - not something I really want to do. So...I was considering either stainless toggle bolts or over-drilling and then epoxying in threaded inserts. Thoughts?

If I went the toggle bolt route could I use standard steel toggles and replace just the screw portion with stainless? I realize it would need a little extra attention with 5200 on the threads and under the mounting plate to avoid water contact, but would that be a viable option or just asking for trouble?

 

[Scott Danforth]

I would price the rail prior to doing anything. that annoying bend may be not so annoying.

post a pic of it, you may be able to straighten in-situ

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,.... What Scott said,....

My guess is, you'll ruin the interior usin' toggles,.....
Generally speakin', there ain't the space in there, ya think there is,.....

 

[dsiekman]

There is also some minor damage to the glass I would like to address and I was considering topside paint.

 

[Scott Danforth]

grab the rail and pull up on it. that should be all that is needed to straighten it.

 

[dsiekman]

Worth a shot! Then just tape and paint around it after I repair the glass?

 

[Scott Danforth]

I would gel, however sure.