Getting ready to install swim platform......

[kozman01]

I'm getting ready to put a swim platform on my 16 footer. My question is, what type of drill bit should I use to drill through the transom. It's really scary to be putting holes in my perfectly good transom. Should I do anything that might prevent damage to the gelcoat or will the drill go right through that. I just don't want gelcoat chipping off the boat. Thanks for any help.

 

[kozman01]

Re: Getting ready to install swim platform......

Anyone done this before??

 

[Boomyal]

Re: Getting ready to install swim platform......

Apply masking tape where you are going to drill and use a sharp drill bit. Use light pressure on the drill as you pierce the surface.

 

[kozman01]

Re: Getting ready to install swim platform......

Any type drill bit, or is there one made especially for fiberglass?

 

[Catchem]

Re: Getting ready to install swim platform......

A metal bit will do fine but do like Boomyal recommended.Put on masking tape and mark holes to be drilled.Light pressure means let the drill do the work.Don't force it,and make sure it is sharp.Dont forget to waterproof your holes either or you will get transom problems later.

 

[kozman01]

Re: Getting ready to install swim platform......

Thanks for the advice!

 

[quantumleap]

Re: Getting ready to install swim platform......

Mibro tools makes a new type of wood bore bit called a 'whiz bit' or 'whizzer' or some goofy name like that. It works wonders on wood as well as fiberglass or formica without shattering the edges on entry. I used one a couple days ago to install locks on some cabinets and was very impressed.

 

[ffboarder]

Re: Getting ready to install swim platform......

Hi,<br />There is a wakeboard tower company called Monster Tower that sells towers over the internet. They seem to be selling a ton of towers and everyone on wakeboarder.com raves about the ease of installation. The instructions say to drill the holes with the drill running backwards. It takes longer, obviously, but the blade on the bit can't catch the gel coat and chip it. Then they say to go one size drill bit higher and again with the drill going backwards, spin it on the top of the hole to make a "flange" to help prevent any spider cracks. At monster.com you can e-mail questions and they will answer you. I have even seen them answer questions from people installing towers made by other companies!

 

[ffboarder]

Re: Getting ready to install swim platform......

Hi,<br />There is a wakeboard tower company called Monster Tower that sells towers over the internet. They seem to be selling a ton of towers and everyone on wakeboarder.com raves about the ease of installation. The instructions say to drill the holes with the drill running backwards. It takes longer, obviously, but the blade on the bit can't catch the gel coat and chip it. Then they say to go one size drill bit higher and again with the drill going backwards, spin it on the top of the hole to make a "flange" to help prevent any spider cracks. At monster.com you can e-mail questions and they will answer you. I have even seen them answer questions from people installing towers made by other companies!