I finally found a T-Top at a reasonable price for my 21ft Wellcraft CCF. It was built for another boat and will require some welding. When mounting to the floor, will large screws into the floor, which is wood backed, work or am I just asking for trouble. There is no access from below so i would have to put in a couple of access plates to be able to use bolts. When using bolts is a backing plate recommended?
Thanks [/quote
Thru-bolting is obviously best, but not always practical. I have had t-tops professionally built and installed (Pacific Yacht Towers, San Marcos, CA) that were screwed/lag bolted to the wood core deck and they held up fine. These had brackets which also attached them to the center console itself and add valuable stabilization and strength. These are easily thru-bolted. Since you are having welding done anyway, I would advise you consider adding this type of bracket. While you are at it, add backing plates for outriggers, radar and a tab for a deck light if they are not already on there.
