18 Mariner Bow Eye Replacement help

[18Starcraft]

New owner 18 ft 1982 Starcraft Mariner Center Console. Been fishing with it since I got it in September and making changes/repairs as I go on. Have already replaced 85 rivets, complete electrical rewire, new cables(steering & controls) and bilge pump. Noticed the bow eye is in poor shape. Evidently previous owners used it a lot or just abused it. Since it is a cast piece and not just a U bolt or eye I can replace, anyone have any idea where i can find a replacement. My first aluminum boat exept for a duranautic I bought new many years ago. Definately more work than fiberglass but lighter so I could go bigger

 

[86RajunCajun]

Re: 18 Mariner Bow Eye Replacement help

I saw a u bolt that can be used at Walmart of all places. I would get rid of the screws and actually bolt it through the keel. Its much stronger that way.

GL
RC

 

[18Starcraft]

Re: 18 Mariner Bow Eye Replacement help

they're not screws but actually rivets that have worn away.