Amanda Knapp
Fixing stripped screws in a fibreglass boat can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and techniques, it is possible. The most common approach is to use epoxy, thickened with colloidal silica, or mixed with micro balloons, cabosil, or fibreglass threads, to fill the stripped screw holes. Some people also recommend using a through bolt, or a bolt, washer, and nut if accessible. Others suggest using fibreglass cloth, rods, or dowels, with epoxy, or a combination of resin and home insulation. Before refilling the holes, it is important to clean them thoroughly, and consider using a drill to create a pilot hole for better results.
Repairing stripped screws in a fiberglass boat
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Epoxy, resin, fiberglass cloth, fiberglass rod, colloidal silica, micro balloons, marine-tex, gel coat, wooden toothpicks, bolts, washers, nuts, plastic syringes, home insulation, tie rap ends, wire ties |
| Techniques | Drill pilot holes, fill holes, redrill, thicken epoxy, use backer, sand, bolt, vacuum debris, fill with fiberglass cloth and epoxy |
| Tools | Drill, epoxy syringe, sandpaper, wire ties |
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What You'll Learn
- Fill stripped screw holes with epoxy and fibreglass threads
- Use sheet metal screws that match the head size of pulled-out wood screws
- Drill pilot holes and attach with screws and 4200/5200
- Use a bolt, washer, and nut if you can access the backside
- Use a drill index to determine the actual OD of the screw
Fill stripped screw holes with epoxy and fibreglass threads
Filling stripped screw holes with epoxy and fibreglass threads is a common method of repairing stripped screws in a fibreglass boat. This method provides a strong and durable repair that can withstand high loads. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to fill stripped screw holes with epoxy and fibreglass threads:
Step 1: Prepare the Hole
Before filling the stripped screw hole with epoxy, it is important to ensure that the hole is clean and free of any debris. Use a drill to remove any remaining screws or fragments and vacuum the hole to remove any dust or residue. If the hole is damp, make sure it is completely dry before proceeding.
Step 2: Mix the Epoxy
Choose a suitable epoxy for the job. Some recommended epoxies include West Systems epoxy, GFlex, and Marinetex. Prepare the epoxy by mixing it with a hardener and a thickening agent, if necessary. A slow hardener is often used to provide a longer working time. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing the epoxy properly.
Step 3: Fill the Hole with Epoxy
Use a syringe or a caulk gun to inject the mixed epoxy into the stripped screw hole. Fill the hole completely, making sure the epoxy penetrates deep into the hole. Cover the hole with tape to prevent the epoxy from leaking out. Allow the epoxy to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 4: Prepare the Fibreglass Threads
While the epoxy is curing, prepare the fibreglass threads by cutting them to the appropriate length. You can use fibreglass cloth and cut it into strips or use leftover fibreglass threads from a previous project. The fibreglass threads should be long enough to fit into the hole and protrude slightly above the surface.
Step 5: Insert the Fibreglass Threads
Once the epoxy has cured, remove the tape and insert the fibreglass threads into the hole. Use a blunt instrument, such as the dull end of a cooking skewer, to cram the fibreglass threads into the hole. Work the threads into the epoxy, ensuring they are fully saturated and there are no air bubbles. The fibreglass should stand proud above the surface.
Step 6: Finish and Sand
After the fibreglass threads are securely in place, allow the epoxy to cure completely. Once cured, use a sandpaper to sand down the excess epoxy and fibreglass, creating a smooth surface. Remove any fibres or epoxy that protrude above the surface until it is flush with the surrounding area.
By following these steps, you can effectively fill stripped screw holes with epoxy and fibreglass threads, creating a strong and durable repair for your fibreglass boat.
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Use sheet metal screws that match the head size of pulled-out wood screws
When repairing stripped screws in a fiberglass boat, one of the recommended methods is to use sheet metal screws that match the head size of the pulled-out wood screws. This method offers several advantages over simply refilling the holes with epoxy or resin and drilling new holes for wood screws.
Firstly, sheet metal screws have a thicker and larger diameter at the threads, with more open-spaced threads that run all the way from the tip to flush with the head. This design feature ensures a tighter fit compared to wood screws, which often have a missing section of threads at the head, known as a "shoulder". The absence of this shoulder in sheet metal screws reduces their vulnerability to tearing out of the fiberglass.
To implement this repair method, start by visiting a hardware store to find sheet metal screws that match the head size of your pulled-out wood screws. Before installing the sheet metal screws, it is crucial to assess the load that the fasteners will need to handle. This consideration will help you choose the most suitable fasteners for your specific application.
Once you have selected the appropriate sheet metal screws, follow these steps:
- Cover the hull of the fiberglass boat with masking tape where you plan to place the sheet metal screw.
- Mark the desired location of the hole on the masking tape using a pencil.
- Set the direction of your drill motor to "Reverse."
- Drill a hole at the pencil-marked location using the drill motor.
- Switch to a drill bit that is 1/16-inch larger than the initial drilled hole.
- Drill a 1/32-inch deep hole at the entry point of the previously drilled hole. This step helps relieve stress in the thin gel coat covering the hull of your fiberglass boat.
- Coat the threads of the sheet metal screw with silicone caulk.
- Thread the screw into the drilled hole by turning it clockwise with a nut runner.
- Continue turning the screw until its head sits tightly against the boat hull and caulk begins to squeeze out around the screw.
By following these steps and using sheet metal screws that match the head size of the pulled-out wood screws, you can effectively repair stripped screws in your fiberglass boat, ensuring a tighter fit and reduced vulnerability to tearing.
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Drill pilot holes and attach with screws and 4200/5200
To repair stripped screws in a fibreglass boat, one method is to drill pilot holes and attach with screws and 4200/5200. This method is suitable for above and below the waterline.
Firstly, you need to choose the appropriate type and size of drill bit for your material and fasteners. For screws, pick a bit that matches the inner diameter of the threaded part, not the diameter of the threads. Mark the location where the fastener will go. Measure across the workpiece from one edge to the other, making short lines at the intersection point. This intersection is the centre point for the pilot hole. Place the bit fully seated in the chuck, which is the part of the drill that holds the bit in place. Drill a pilot hole that is at least as deep as the fastening threads and about 1/64th"-1/32" smaller in diameter than the diameter of the screw.
If there is a risk of gelcoat fracture at the surface, you may want to dimple the top of your pilot hole with a bit that is the full diameter of your screw. It is tricky to do this in a thin skin, and you may want to run the drill motor in reverse to avoid sucking the bit all the way into the hole. Vacuum any debris out of the hole before installing the new fastening.
Next, you can attach with screws and 4200/5200. 4200 is more removable than 5200 and cures faster, although the fast-cure 5200 claims to dry in 24 hours. 4200 is also a better sealant. However, 5200 is more permanent and is better for use below the waterline. You can use a toothpick to spread the sealant into the holes.
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Use a bolt, washer, and nut if you can access the backside
If you can access the backside of the stripped screw in your fiberglass boat, one option for repairing it is to use a bolt, washer, and nut. This method provides a secure and strong hold, but it requires access to the backside of the screw to insert the bolt and secure it with the washer and nut.
To do this, you will need to remove the stripped screw and any debris from the hole. Make sure the hole is clean and free of any residue. You can use a drill bit to clean out the hole and create a smooth surface for the new hardware. Select a bolt that fits securely into the existing hole or drill the hole to the appropriate size for the bolt. It is important to choose a bolt made from durable material, such as stainless steel, to withstand the marine environment.
Once you have the appropriate bolt, insert it into the hole from the backside of the fiberglass. Secure the bolt in place by tightening the washer and nut onto it. Make sure the bolt is snug and secure, but be careful not to over-tighten, as this can strip the threads or damage the fiberglass.
After securing the bolt, you can attach any necessary hardware or fixtures to it. If needed, you can also apply a marine-grade sealant or adhesive to the bolt to provide an additional layer of protection against moisture and corrosion. This method creates a strong and reliable connection, ideal for holding fixtures or hardware in place on your fiberglass boat.
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Use a drill index to determine the actual OD of the screw
When repairing stripped screws in a fibreglass boat, it is important to determine the exact outside diameter (OD) of the screw. This is because the wrong screw size can cause screws to tear out of fibreglass, leading to bigger long-term issues, such as water ingress.
To determine the OD of the screw, you should use a drill index. A drill index is a tool that allows you to measure the diameter of screws and drill bits. By using a drill index, you can find the screw with the exact same diameter as the pilot hole you will drill. This ensures a tight fit and reduces the risk of the screw tearing out of the fibreglass.
If you are unable to find a screw with the exact same diameter as the pilot hole, it is better to opt for a screw with a slightly smaller diameter rather than a larger one. A screw that is too large can damage the plating and cause corrosion.
Additionally, when selecting a screw, it is important to consider the type of screw. Self-tapping screws, for example, can fracture and wreck epoxy when re-inserted. Sheet metal screws, on the other hand, have a thicker diameter and more tightly spaced threads, resulting in a tighter fit and reduced vulnerability to tearing out of the fibreglass.
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Frequently asked questions
Fill the holes with an epoxy mix and cut-up fiberglass threads from scrap fiberglass cloth. You can also use a fiberglass rod, which you can epoxy in and tap.
Marine-Tex is a popular choice for repairing stripped screws in fiberglass boats. You can also use West System Epoxy, which is available in small packets for minor repairs.
Clean out the hole thoroughly and fill it with epoxy using a small plastic syringe. Smooth it out with a wet finger and let it cure. Sand it flush and pre-drill before replacing the screw.
You can use a bolt, washer, and nut if you can access the backside of the hole. Another option is to use blue plastic anchors and 3M 5200, which is a quick fix for items with little stress, such as lights.
Use a drill index to determine the actual OD of the screw. Drill a pilot hole that is at least as deep as the fastening threads and slightly smaller in diameter. Dimple the top of the pilot hole with a bit that matches the full diameter of your screw to avoid gelcoat fracture.
