Using Velcro to mount fire extinguisher

[BTMCB]

I am considering using those "industrial strength" Velcro strips to mount my fire extinguisher to the panel under the instrument panel (type of boat is listed in my signature). I would size one strip to fit the back of the extinguisher holder / bracket and the other strip to the boat panel. I could screw the bracket in but am having a very hard time making holes in my new boat! Looking for pro's and con's of using the velcro. BTW, I experimented by using the strips to mount a similar fire extinguisher (weight wise) in my garage (not exactly to the same type surface of the boat panel) but it holds very well, appears solid, goes on and off pretty easy - off course it doesn't get too choppy in the garage. Thanks in advance for any responses.

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Using Velcro to mount fire extinguisher

imho bad idea..... drill the holes

 

[woodee148]

Re: Using Velcro to mount fire extinguisher

imho bad idea..... drill the holes

I agree, not going to hurt anything with a couple of screws + there is no worry of it falling and breaking the pin or something

 

[Bucks45]

Re: Using Velcro to mount fire extinguisher

Me too. Use the screws.

 

[BeaufortTJustice]

Re: Using Velcro to mount fire extinguisher

I, too, shared your fear of holes in a shiny, new boat...but I overcame it by telling myself repeatedly that "It'll be OK." I screwed my fire extinguisher mount into the bulkhead area under the dash. There is no chance of water getting to those holes and penetrating the wood there...if water does reach it, I will have much more serious issues at hand (the boat would be underwater). You'll be fine by screwing it. Just check and double check the location and make sure that is where you want it for the rest of your time with the boat...that is the best way to minimize the number of holes.

Before you know it, you'll be drilling a 3/4" hole through your transom like I did! Baby steps...baby steps...

 

[tx1961whaler]

Re: Using Velcro to mount fire extinguisher

I am considering using those "industrial strength" Velcro strips to mount my fire extinguisher to the panel under the instrument panel (type of boat is listed in my signature). I would size one strip to fit the back of the extinguisher holder / bracket and the other strip to the boat panel. I could screw the bracket in but am having a very hard time making holes in my new boat! Looking for pro's and con's of using the velcro. BTW, I experimented by using the strips to mount a similar fire extinguisher (weight wise) in my garage (not exactly to the same type surface of the boat panel) but it holds very well, appears solid, goes on and off pretty easy - off course it doesn't get too choppy in the garage. Thanks in advance for any responses.

Not a good idea. If you look real hard at the packaging of the fire extinguisher, you'll note that it is only Coast Guard approved when used with the bracket provided. I've got ticketed for less.......

 

[BTMCB]

Re: Using Velcro to mount fire extinguisher

That settles it.............out with the velcro and in with the screws. Thanks for the quick replies and good kick in the @ss about making a couple of holes...drill is warming up..............thanks again guys

 

[haulnazz15]

Re: Using Velcro to mount fire extinguisher

The velcro method is an excellent recipe for broken toes and busted shins when that thing comes undone on the water! Go with your intuition and mount it with the screws.

 

[NYBo]

Re: Using Velcro to mount fire extinguisher

Not a good idea. If you look real hard at the packaging of the fire extinguisher, you'll note that it is only Coast Guard approved when used with the bracket provided. I've got ticketed for less.......

 

[Jeep Man]

Re: Using Velcro to mount fire extinguisher

Red Green could do it with duct tape. LOL

 

[mike343]

Re: Using Velcro to mount fire extinguisher

Minority view. I just put in a a velcro mount and it works fine. Not worried about holes, they were already there but my best mounting position for the extinguisher was in a traffic area and the weak plastic mounts kept getting snapped off. So I have the holes and velcro attached to the broken mount. And another extinguisher nearby.

 

[NBE]

Re: Using Velcro to mount fire extinguisher

I find that although the super-strong velco holds really well the glue on the sticky side is usually lacking. It doesn't take long for the glue to give way.

Combine that with the bouncing of a boat and the screws are about the only way to go.