I need OPTIONS for side (beauty) panel mounting

[rfdfirecaptain]

I had a rotted side panel that I had to remove and rebuild (still waiting to recover the panel). The panel was mounted to the gunnel wall with approximately 2.5" SS bolts with a head similar to Tee nuts. The bolts went through the gunnel wall and were secured by a washer and nylon nut. I had to cut the bolts from the top side with a reciprocating saw to remove the rotten panel.

I cannot remount the new panel in the same manner, which the original one was mounted. There is no doubt the panel was mounted before the engine and storage tanks were mounted in the bilge area. There is no human with arms long enough to reach from the bilge area up the gunnel wall to tighten a nut.

So, other than velcro... what other options are out there? How would an upholsterer do the job if I would have taken it to them? Is there a clip system available? I contacted West Marine and was told... "good luck".

Hoping to get lots of ideas. All ideas will be seriously considered.

Thanks!

 

[oops!]

Re: I need OPTIONS for side (beauty) panel mounting

you can glue it. but most boat builders screw right thru the vynal. when the upholsters put the new piece on....get them to add a "fold" in it......this will allow you hide the screw.

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: I need OPTIONS for side (beauty) panel mounting

Pics Please!!

 

[rfdfirecaptain]

Re: I need OPTIONS for side (beauty) panel mounting

For the option of screwing through the vinyl from the front side what kind of screws are used that will hold when screwed through ?? thick fiberglass? Do these screws require pre-drilling into the fiberglass?

No pics available right now. Honestly, I don't know what more you could glean from photos. This is just a straight forward question... what systems are out there for this type of mounting application.

 

[john3931]

Re: I need OPTIONS for side (beauty) panel mounting

Mine are held on by double ended Christmas tree clips like shown on this page.
http://www.wclco.com/Plastic_Components/Plastic_Fasteners.php

 

[rfdfirecaptain]

Re: I need OPTIONS for side (beauty) panel mounting

Thanks for the link. I like the double ended Christmas Tree Clip idea, but I've got a few questions.

1. Where can I buy these clips (locally)? What type of store would carry them?
2. How many clips would you estimate would be needed to secure a panel that is 12 inches wide and 36 inches long?

 

[john3931]

Re: I need OPTIONS for side (beauty) panel mounting

Maybe a good automotive parts store that has body stuff like a NAPA. I saw a listing on Ebay. Just taking a guess that if you put them about every foot apart on the length and top and bottom should be enough. I would clamp them in place before covering them and drill small pilot holes so you know the locations and then you can make them the proper size later. Doesn't hurt to drill too many holes.

 

[john3931]

Re: I need OPTIONS for side (beauty) panel mounting

http://compare.ebay.com/like/400193063087?var=lv&ltyp=AllFixedPriceItemTypes&var=sbar

 

[oops!]

Re: I need OPTIONS for side (beauty) panel mounting

if you are doing the screw thru......i allways pre drill my gellcoat/glass....its much easier.
use a stainless steel screw.

 

[Yacht Dr.]

Re: I need OPTIONS for side (beauty) panel mounting

Honestly, I don't know what more you could glean from photos. This is just a straight forward question... what systems are out there for this type of mounting application.

You would be surprised at the product knowledge here in Iboats .. some work..some dont.

Its not Just straight forward as your suggesting..

Can you just blind screw .. can you screw with button snaps .. ( thinking you cant through bolt them like the factory did ) ..

I can suggest you drill holes in your FG to fit your Bolsters .. but I can get shot down for whatever ..

You are asking to Best way to mount side bolsters .. without through bolts..and without velcro..and Without Pics..

Yes there is a way..Clip it..

YD.