How to install hardware on cabin top when I can't access the underside?

[alex909]

I have a Beneteau 343 and would like to install a cam cleat on a 1" riser on each side of the cabin top to run my traveler lines through (currently, they go through rope clutches).

I need to mount them in a place that has no access underneath for me to screw on the bolt or add a backing plate. Is there a way to do this securely so that it can handle the loads? Do I fill the space under the screws with epoxy or some other kind of filler and then screw them on without bolts or backing? There is an access plate under the winch and judging by that, there is probably a 1" gap between the cabin top and the liner beneath where I want to put my cleats.

Pardon the ignorance, I've never had to drill a hole on my boat and I want to make sure I get it right. Please let me know if I haven't been clear in explaining my question. I tried to upload some photos of the location but the uploads kept failing. I can send pics on request privately if it'll help.

Thanks for the help!

Alex

[jbondy]

I may be wrong, but I think you have to cut thru the headliner and do it right. If the area of the deck where you're going to do this is cored, you have to seal the core so water won't penetrate and cause rot. See this:

Sealing Deck Penetrations to Prevent Core Rot Photo Gallery by Compass Marine at pbase.com

http://www.sailnet.com/forums/gear-m...utyl-tape.html


Regarding the headliner, I did the same to my boat. From the top, I drilled down thru the deck and headliner. Then I drilled 1" holes thru the headliner from underneath with a hole saw so I could place large fender washers and nuts on the bolts hat will be placed from above. I believe the fender washers will be enough backing in thei application because the loads will be light and in shear.

I then plugged the holes in the headliner with 1" plugs I sourced from Grainger. Photos:

[Maine Sail]

Ideally you'll need to cut the headliner and create your own access plate. Try to match the other access plates that are already in use and it won't look Mickey Mouse..

[jbondy]

A little harsh, don't you think?

[Jeff_H]

I don't think that Maine Sail was referring secifically to the ear and nose arrangement of circles on your project, as much as the more generic reference to a less than finished job as being "Mickey Mouse".

For what it is worth, I have used your method when I am able to get a neat arrangement of holes and Main Sail's method when I needed access and there was no good way to get an orderly arrangement.

Jeff

[GeorgeB]

Mainesail, my C34 headliner is similar to the one you had in your 320. What is your recommendation for an access plate? As you know, Catalina taps the coach roof clutches into a glassed in bronze plate so I do not have any other access plates to match up.

[DwayneSpeer]

Drill and seal properly as noted elsewhere and use fender washers. Finish off the interior with a cap made of teak and it will look very nice. I have several such installations on my boat.

[Maine Sail]

Originally Posted by jbondy

A little harsh, don't you think?

No, not referring to you installation at all but the many Mickey Mouse installations I have seen over the years where two, three or four + different types of mismatched cover plates were used in the same area of the cabin. Even seen duct tape holding tin foil in place...

[alex909]

Thanks for the suggestions. I'm going to go with the idea of drilling a 1" hole through the liner under the mounting points and then plugging it with a white or wood plug. I'll be sure to seal as appropriate.

[sailingdog]

Maine Sail--

But duct tape and tin foil is so stylish... :-)