how to mount swim PLATFORM

[hondakillrsx]

so I just purchased an aluminum swim platform which has sunken screw braces to mount to the transom. I'm just wondering what and where everyone has gone for these types of screws. I just ordered 3M's 5200 adhesive and am stuck on what to use for screws. I don't think I'll be able to use any nut and bolts as my transom is very think. Let me know what everyone thinks!

 

[Silverbullet555]

Re: how to mount swim PLATFORM

Don't let thickness stop you from through bolting. If you have access to the backside, use a backing plate and through bolt it. You can get many sizes at mcmastercarr.com.

If you do not have access to the backside, you will want to overdrill the holes and fill with epoxy thickened with chopped glass and then redrill the holes. Bed in 4200 or 5200 to seal them. When you drill the holes in this way, try not to go all the way through so you can then fill the holes to the back with epoxy. it's a bit messy but you want to seal the transom from any water intrusion should the 4200 or 5200 leak.

 

[hondakillrsx]

Re: how to mount swim PLATFORM

when you say "chopped glass" do you mean little cuts of fiber glass" that you stuff in the ends of the drill holes?

 

[Silverbullet555]

Re: how to mount swim PLATFORM

If you are using a self tapping screw the epoxy will not be strong enough. You can buy precut chopped glass and West System sells milled glass (which is more of a powder). The chopped glass gives the resin strength and allows the screw to hold better.

I did some experiments with cutting fiberglass cloth into small squares and then mixing it with epoxy and it made a stranded glass mix and should work.

I will still say if there is any way you can through bolt, do it.

 

[hondakillrsx]

Re: how to mount swim PLATFORM

Thanks, so should I mix fiberglass epoxy first and then use the 5200 or will the 5200 be fine fixed with the chopped glass. I think I might be able to get one or two through bolts, it might just have to bolt in through my livewell.....