Helena Frye
Mounting a hull saver on a fiberglass boat is a straightforward process that can be done in ten minutes or less without the use of any tools. The Stern Saver is a device that provides a mounting surface for sonar transducers and other devices such as bilge pumps, live well pumps, and fuel separators. It is designed to be adhered to the boat using a strong adhesive, eliminating the need to drill holes in the boat's hull. The installation process involves determining the desired location for the transducer or accessory, cleaning and preparing the area, applying adhesive to the Stern Saver, attaching it to the boat, and then mounting the desired device using stainless steel screws. This method not only simplifies the installation process but also helps to prevent water infiltration and protect the resale value of the boat.
How to Mount Hull Saver on a Fiberglass Boat
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Hull material | Fiberglass |
| Hull type | Thin hull |
| Mounting method | Drilling, screwing, gluing |
| Mounting tools | Hand drill, masking tape, bevel gauge, sandpaper, alcohol pads, rubber gloves, marine adhesive, cable ties, propylene glycol, petroleum jelly |
| Mounting surface | Transom |
| Mounting location | Below waterline |
| Mounting time | 10 minutes or less |
| Mounting instructions | Clean and prep the area, load with adhesive, stick on the boat, secure with tape, mount transducer with screws |
| Removal instructions | Cut off with a thin kerf pull saw, refer to instructions, purchase a removal shield to protect the boat's gel coat |
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What You'll Learn
Stern Saver kit installation
The Stern Saver kit is a convenient way to mount a transducer or other accessories to your boat without drilling holes in the hull. It is designed to provide a permanent mounting surface for sonar transducers and can also be used for other devices such as bilge pumps, live well pumps, and fuel separators. The kit includes a board, adhesive, mounting spike, sandpaper, alcohol pads, and rubber gloves. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install the Stern Saver kit:
- Determine the location for your transducer or accessory. This is an important step as the Stern Saver is not meant to be removed easily and is considered a permanent extension of the boat.
- Clean and prepare the area of the hull where you will be installing the Stern Saver.
- Load the Stern Saver with the provided adhesive, following the instructions on the package.
- Stick the Stern Saver onto the prepared area of the hull.
- Secure the Stern Saver in place with masking tape. Allow the adhesive to cure for 4-6 hours or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- After the curing period, mount your transducer or accessory using 3/4" or shorter self-tapping stainless steel screws.
Note: The Stern Saver is not suitable for mounting grab rails or any structural or heavy devices weighing more than 5 pounds. If you need to remove the Stern Saver, refer to the removal instructions and purchase a removal shield to protect your boat's gel coat.
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Preparing the hull
First, determine the location for the hull saver mount. It is important to choose an area that is away from any interference or turbulence caused by machinery or radiation sources. Ensure that the device will be continuously submerged under the water and will not be damaged during trailering, hauling, or launching.
Once you have identified the suitable location, clean and prepare the area thoroughly. Use a hull cleaner specifically designed for fiberglass boats to remove any stains, scum lines, or grime on the hull. This step is crucial for achieving a strong bond between the hull saver and the hull.
After cleaning, you may need to sand down the area to create a rough surface. This process will help create a better adhesion for the adhesive. Use sandpaper or a similar abrasive tool to gently scuff the hull surface. Ensure that you wear the appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, during this process.
Before proceeding with the installation, gather all the necessary tools and materials. The Stern Saver kit typically includes everything you need, such as the board, adhesive, mounting spike, template, sandpaper, alcohol pads, and rubber gloves. Additionally, you may require a hand drill for creating holes, depending on the type of hull saver mount you have selected.
If you are installing a transducer, it is essential to test it before permanent installation. Prepare a sealable and thin plastic bag and fill it with water to perform the test. Ensure that the transducer is functioning correctly and meeting your requirements.
By following these steps, you will effectively prepare the hull of your fiberglass boat for the hull saver mount. Remember to refer to the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of your chosen hull saver product for a more detailed and accurate installation process.
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Using a bevel gauge
When mounting a hull saver on a fiberglass boat, one of the steps you will need to take is to use a bevel gauge to measure the boat's deadrise angle. Bevel gauges are handy tools when building boats; they can be used to measure, mark, and transfer angles from one work surface to another. They can also be used to directly set accurate blade angles on cutting tools.
A bevel gauge is a tool made of brass strips that are 1/16" thick and 1/2" wide, and has angled points at the ends. For safety, the points are not sharp, and the edges are softened to be kind to hands and workpieces. The large aluminum screw is easy to adjust and set the right amount of friction between the blades. The screw’s low profile ensures that it does not snag inside a pocket. The ends of the blades at the screw are evenly rounded, and their pointed ends line up accurately. The bevel gauge has a nice weight, and it slips easily in and out of a pocket. The tightness of the blades can be adjusted to slip smoothly to a setting and then hold it. The blades can also rotate 360 degrees, an advantage over sliding bevel gauges that cannot take small angles without having the blade extend beyond the pivot.
The short 3″ blades allow the tool to be placed in small places where larger bevels cannot fit, and take more accurate angles where a curved surface is involved. Settings can be taken from the boat and quickly transferred to the workpiece. The gauge is thin, just 1/8″, so it is better suited for picking up angles from a lofting than is a traditional sliding bevel with a thick wooden body, which elevates the blade above the lines. The bright brass makes the gauge easy to see when the bevel is placed in a dark area of the boat.
When mounting a hull saver on a fiberglass boat, you will need to use the bevel gauge to measure the deadrise angle of the selected position. You will then need to mount the transducer in correspondence to this angle to ensure its best performance.
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Drilling holes
Prepare the Hull:
Firstly, determine the location for your hull saver. Clean and prepare the area on the hull where you plan to install it. This step is crucial to ensure a strong bond and proper adhesion.
Use a Stern Saver Kit:
Consider using a Stern Saver kit, which is designed to provide a mounting surface for hull savers without the need for drilling holes below the waterline. The kit includes a board that adheres strongly to the boat using a marine-grade adhesive. After securing the board, you can attach the hull saver to the board without drilling holes directly into the boat's hull.
If you need to drill holes, use a hand drill to create them in the board provided in the kit. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific type of hull saver you are installing. It is essential to wear the provided rubber gloves and use the alcohol pads to keep the area clean and free from oils and dirt.
When drilling, always use a bit that is appropriate for the size of the screws you will be using. For example, a 9/64 bit can be used for smaller screws, while a larger bit may be needed for longer screws. Countersink the holes to ensure the screw threads do not touch the gel coat or hull surface. This will help create a smooth finish and prevent damage to the hull.
Tips for Drilling:
Before drilling into fiberglass, use masking tape on the spot to prevent splintering and cracking. Additionally, consider using a die grinder to undercut the holes or counterbore them. This creates a mechanical bond by allowing epoxy to form around the screw heads. If you are drilling into a cored hull, ensure you only drill from the inside and not through the outside.
Reusing Existing Holes:
If you are remounting a hull saver or reusing existing holes, you can simply use larger diameter screws that are 3/4" long or shorter. This is a good option if you want to avoid drilling new holes.
Remember, drilling holes into a fiberglass boat should be done carefully and only when necessary. Always follow the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of your hull saver for the best results.
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Filling holes with epoxy
Prepare the Hole: Before filling, ensure the hole is clean and free of debris. If necessary, use a drill to widen the hole and create a smooth surface. This step ensures that the epoxy will adhere properly and fill the hole completely.
Choose the Right Epoxy: Select a high-quality marine epoxy resin that is suitable for fiberglass boats. The epoxy should be thickened to ensure it fills and seals the hole effectively. You can thicken the epoxy with fillers like fiberglass mat, fiberglass cutting shavings, or wood flour, but be cautious when using wood-based fillers as they may cause issues if not well mixed.
Mix and Apply the Epoxy: Carefully mix the epoxy resin according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once mixed, use a popsicle stick or a disposable plastic syringe to apply the epoxy into the hole. Start by filling the hole about halfway, then use the popsicle stick to pack the epoxy down and fill it some more. Finally, top it off, leaving a small excess ("muffin top") above the hole.
Cure and Sand: Allow the epoxy to cure completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. This may take several hours or more, depending on the product. Once cured, use sandpaper to sand down the excess epoxy, creating a smooth finish that blends with the surrounding surface.
Repeat if Necessary: Depending on the size of the hole and the epoxy's performance, you may need to repeat the filling process. Ensure you follow the instructions for the specific epoxy product you are using, as curing times and application techniques may vary.
By following these steps, you can effectively fill holes in your fiberglass boat with epoxy, creating a strong and watertight seal. Remember to work carefully and refer to product instructions to ensure the best results.
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Frequently asked questions
The Stern Saver is a mounting surface for sonar transducers and other devices such as bilge pumps, live well pumps, and fuel separators. It is designed to be used without drilling holes below the waterline of your boat.
First, determine where you will install your transducer or accessory. Clean and prepare the area of the hull. Load the Stern Saver with adhesive, stick it on the boat, and secure it in place with masking tape. After 4-6 hours, mount your transducer or accessory using 3/4" or shorter self-tapping stainless steel screws.
You will need a bevel gauge to measure the boat's deadrise angle. You will also need a hand drill to make holes on the board to attach the transducer. Other tools include sandpaper, alcohol pads, and marine adhesive.
It is recommended to use in-hulls with bronze housings for a fiberglass boat to prevent corrosion caused by dissimilar metals. Transom mount transducers are easy to install, inexpensive to maintain, and suitable for fiberglass boats.
Since the bond between the Stern Saver and the boat is supposed to be permanent, it is not easy to remove. If you must remove it, refer to the removal instructions and purchase a removal shield to protect your boat's gel coat.
