Ski Pylon Mounting In Glass Boat

[Chibrichish]

Hi All

I am just wondering if it is ok to use Coach Screw to mount a base plate for a Ski Pylon to a fibreglass boat floor. The Pylon also has a bracket that mounts to the transom so it should not have too much pressure on the base of the pole.

All the mounting kits I have seen have a bolt and a nut but I have no access to underneath the floor.

It is my first boat so I am not sure of you need more information.

 

[BF]

Re: Ski Pylon Mounting In Glass Boat

Hi & Welcome....

Do not mount the base for the pole using screws. There is a reason the kits come with bolts. I knew someone who was missing a toe because the plate and screws ripped out of the floor under load. There is a lot of strain on the base when there is a big pull on the end of the pole.

You may have to cut an access hole near where the base will go, install the bolts, and then patch the access hole opening (fiberglass back in the piece you cut out to get access). Or you could put in an access plate instead of patching... something like this.
Waterproof Deck Plates - iboats

 

[agallant80]

Re: Ski Pylon Mounting In Glass Boat

Absolutely not. It will rip out. Best case you will be left with a hole in your deck, worst case someone gets hurt really bad. Use the backing plate even if it means cutting a hole in the deck to access it.

 

[Chibrichish]

Re: Ski Pylon Mounting In Glass Boat

So, is it ok to just cut a hole into the floor to reach under?
How do I know where it is ok to cut?

The boat is a Pride Cheetah if that helps.

Thanks for your advice.