Installing a transom wired remote- drilling question and opinions neededs

[Joel_CA]

I currently have a Kenwood KMR-555U headunit mounted in my cockpit and am about to add a KCA-RC55MR wired remote to the swim platform of my 1998 Searay Bowrider 210. The installation will require a 2"+ hole. I know when drilling into the gellcoat , I should drill in reverse to prevent cracking of the surface. I was wondering what the procedure is when using a hole saw bit? Should I start in reverse with the centering bit until I get past the outer layer of gellcoat, then switch to forward until I drill completely through- then go back to reverse again when the 2" hole saw contacts the gellcoat, then forward once again once I get thru the top layer? I tried searching online and couldn't find anything certain. Thanks in advance.

 

[Auger01]

Re: Installing a transom wired remote- drilling questions

Re: Installing a transom wired remote- drilling questions

Drill the hole with just the pilot bit in forward. It doesnt matter if the gellcoat cracks there because that part is getting cut out. Put the hole saw on the pilot bit and start in reverse like you mentioned, then go in forward. Easy piesey.

 

[JASinIL2006]

Re: Installing a transom wired remote- drilling questions

Re: Installing a transom wired remote- drilling questions

Running backwards to score the gelcoat might work. I applied masking tape, also. A forstner bit works really well; that's what I used when I installed my transon-mounted trim switch.

 

[Joel_CA]

Re: Installing a transom wired remote- drilling questions

Re: Installing a transom wired remote- drilling questions

Thanks for the replies guys! I've got a couple of projects for the boat ahead of me tomorrow and that is one of them. I've already got the appropriate sized hole saw in my toolbox that will work for this install. Is there any potential issues with using a hole saw bit vs a forstner bit? Hole saw bits seem a bit too aggressive to me in this application.

Joel

 

[Joel_CA]

Re: Installing a transom wired remote- drilling questions

Re: Installing a transom wired remote- drilling questions

One more thing......I planned on installing it on the right side of the factory swim platform just after the "Signature" decal. My reasoning for this is that since the ladder is on the other side, there will be less traffic where it can be accidentally kicked/damaged and less traffic where it get excessively soaked by swimmers boarding the boat. The remote is IP7 rated, but i'd still prefer to keep it as dry as possible.
My wife wants me to install it on the same side, but further over to the right of the snap on cover pull handle - so that the remote is facing towards the left of the boat. She says it will prevent those that are sitting on the factory platform, but leaning on the remote and possibly damaging it. It will also prevent those that are sitting in front of it, from having to get up to turn around and face it, to make any adjustments. While this might make some sense, her location will prevent a swimmer from reaching up from the right side of the platform and actually making adjustments with it, since it will be facing away from their line of site. The aftermarket swim platform extends out too far for anyone to make adjustments while in the water from any other location but the right side.
We've decided to seek other opinions outside of our choice friends. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

J

 

[JASinIL2006]

Re: Installing a transom wired remote- drilling questions

Re: Installing a transom wired remote- drilling questions

Thanks for the replies guys! I've got a couple of projects for the boat ahead of me tomorrow and that is one of them. I've already got the appropriate sized hole saw in my toolbox that will work for this install. Is there any potential issues with using a hole saw bit vs a forstner bit? Hole saw bits seem a bit too aggressive to me in this application.

Joel

Both will work; Forstner bits will give you a very clean, smooth hole. Hole saws leave edges that are a bit more raggedy.

 

[Joel_CA]

Re: Installing a transom wired remote- drilling questions

Re: Installing a transom wired remote- drilling questions

I finally got it done using a 2" carbide bit meant to drill holes through fiberglass bathtubs and shower stalls. It worked great and went through like butter. I tell you I don't think i'll ever get used to drilling through the boats structure. Anyways, here are a few pictures. I have a 3" rubber end cap on the way that i'll use to cover it with when in storage. Thanks for the input guys.

 

[JASinIL2006]

Re: Installing a transom wired remote- drilling question and opinions neededs

Very professional-looking installation! Nice!

 

[Joel_CA]

Re: Installing a transom wired remote- drilling question and opinions neededs

Thanks for the compliment and all of your suggestions.