Kristian Ferrell
There are several methods to attach a RAM mount to a fiberglass boat. Some people opt for rails or tracks, while others prefer to use bolts, screws, or glue. If you are drilling into the fiberglass, it is important to use the correct drill bits and techniques to avoid cracking the gel coat. Many people recommend using stainless bolts, a large washer on the backside, and a nylon insert lock nut. Others suggest gluing a plywood backer to the underside of the mounting area for added support.
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What You'll Learn
Using bolts and washers
When attaching a RAM mount to a fiberglass boat using bolts and washers, there are several key steps to follow. Firstly, it is important to determine the weight and stress factors of what you will be mounting. If the RAM mount is relatively light and not subject to significant stress, you may not need a backing. However, if it is heavier or will experience more movement, a backing is recommended for additional support.
For the backing, you can use a half-inch plywood piece glued to the underside of the mounting area with silicone or polyurethane sealant. Ensure the backing piece has a large surface area and drill a pilot hole through the fibreglass and backing before attaching with self-tapping screws.
When using bolts, it is recommended to use stainless steel bolts with a large washer on the backside and a nylon insert lock nut. This provides a secure and durable hold. To prevent chipping or cracking of the gel coat when drilling, use an oversized bit to break through first, then switch to a proper-sized sharp bit to continue drilling. You can also use a plywood template with the hole layout to guide your drilling and prevent slipping.
Additionally, consider using a rubber gasket under the mount for added stability. Always wear long sleeves and take necessary precautions if you have glass allergies, as fibreglass particles can be irritating.
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Drilling holes
It is also important to consider the weight and stress of what you are mounting. If the fibreglass is thick enough and the mounted object is relatively light, you may not need a backing. However, if there is any concern about the strength of the fibreglass, it is recommended to attach a backing piece made of plywood to the underside of the mounting area. This can be done by drilling through the fibreglass and pilot-hole drilling the backer before attaching with stainless self-tapping screws and a sealant such as silicone or polyurethane.
When drilling the holes, it is best to start with a smaller drill bit and increase the size in a few steps to get to the desired size. This helps to ensure that the hole is in the correct position and reduces the risk of cracking the fibreglass. It is also important to use sharp drill bits designed for drilling plastic, as they have a steeper angle of attack, which can help to reduce binding.
Additionally, creating a template out of plywood with the hole layout drilled into it can help guide the drilling process and prevent the bit from wandering. This template can be clamped to the desired location, but care must be taken not to apply too much pressure and crack the fibreglass.
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Sealants
When attaching a RAM mount to a fibreglass boat, sealants can be used to create a watertight seal and provide additional support. It is important to note that drilling into fibreglass can cause cracking if not done properly. To avoid this, it is recommended to pre-drill holes and use a countersink bit to remove the gel coat, which is prone to cracking.
One option for sealant is to use a product like 3M 5200. Dip the end of your screw into the sealant before inserting it into the hole. This will help to hold the screw in place and create a watertight seal. This method is recommended by a user who has experience as a boat rigger and has found it to be effective in mounting boat hook holding clips.
Another option is to use a backing plate made of wood or aluminium. This provides a substantial area to put in the screws and can be mounted using sealant or adhesive. One user recommends using a piece of treated 2x4 wood as a backing plate and securing it with both the fibreglass and wood. This method has proven durable over several years.
When using bolts, it is also recommended to use a rubber gasket under the mount to provide a tight seal and protect the fibreglass from the pressure of the bolts. This method has been found to be effective by multiple users.
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Backing plates
Firstly, it is recommended to use a backing plate made of sturdy materials such as aluminum, starboard, or steel. You can purchase backing plates specifically designed for this purpose, ensuring they have the necessary hardware and hole patterns for attachment.
When creating a custom backing plate, ensure it is made of a suitable material and thickness to withstand the applied loads. For example, a 1/4" aluminum backing plate has been reported to work well, providing a secure attachment point for the RAM mount.
To install the backing plate, you will need to remove any necessary covers or panels for access. Place the backing plate in the desired location, ensuring it is positioned correctly relative to the ignition key or other reference points.
Use stainless steel bolts and lock nuts to securely attach the backing plate to the fiberglass boat. It is recommended to use nylon lock nuts whenever possible, as they provide better resistance to loosening. Additionally, consider using washers to distribute the load more evenly and reduce the risk of damaging the fiberglass.
Finally, a rubber gasket can be placed between the RAM mount and the backing plate. This gasket helps to absorb vibrations and prevent slippage, ensuring a more secure and stable installation.
By following these steps and considerations, you can effectively utilize backing plates to attach a RAM mount to a fiberglass boat, resulting in a strong and durable installation.
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Screws
When it comes to attaching a RAM mount to a fiberglass boat using screws, there are several important considerations and steps to follow. Firstly, it is crucial to assess the weight and stress factors of the item you are mounting. If the RAM mount is relatively lightweight and not subject to significant movement or force, you may not need a backing plate and can opt for simple sheet metal screws. However, for heavier items or those that will experience more movement, a backing plate is recommended to provide additional support.
The type of screws you use is also important. Stainless steel screws are a popular choice for their durability and resistance to corrosion. When drilling into the fiberglass, it is recommended to use an oversized bit first to break through the gel coat, and then switch to a smaller, sharp bit to continue drilling. This two-step process helps prevent chipping and cracking of the gel coat. It is also advised to use a nail punch to create a small indentation, which will keep the drill bit from slipping.
Before drilling, it is a good idea to mark the drilling spot with masking tape, which will help prevent scratches on the gel coat. Additionally, clamping a piece of wood with a pre-drilled hole can provide guidance for the drill bit and prevent it from wandering. If you are using a backing plate, you can attach it with silicone or polyurethane sealant to the underside of the mounting area. Drill through the fiberglass and create a pilot hole in the backing plate before securing it with high-quality stainless self-tapping screws.
While screws are an option for attaching a RAM mount, some people prefer through-bolting as screws can loosen over time due to the constant pounding the boat endures on the water. If you have access to the backside of the mounting area, through-bolting with stainless bolts, a large washer, and a nylon insert lock nut is a more secure option.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to use bolts instead of screws when attaching a RAM mount to a fiberglass boat, as screws can loosen up. Use stainless bolts, a large washer on the backside, and a nylon insert lock nut. If you are using screws, use an oversize bit to break through the gel coat first and then continue with a smaller bit to prevent chipping or cracking.
It is important to consider the weight of the item being mounted and the amount of stress it will be under. If the fiberglass is thin, it may not be strong enough to support the weight without a plywood backing. Always use a sealant and ensure that the backing piece has as much surface area as possible.
When drilling holes, use a nail punch to create a small indentation and prevent the drill bit from slipping. Start with a small drill bit and increase the size in a few steps to prevent cracking the gel coat. Use masking tape over the area and draw on it before drilling to help prevent chipping and scratching.
