Drilling and Cutting into Fiberglass

[cigar_stub]

I just bought a 2002 Bay Stealth and would like to add a few options that would require I cut holes (for a couple of gauges and a radio) and also to mount some other items with screws. I've never worked with fiberglass before so my questions are:

1. What type of blade is best suited for cutting, if I were to use me jig saw? Are there blades made just for fiberglass?
2. When drilling a hole to mount something, should I be using a pilot hole?
3. Should I use any type of sealer on the screw, assuming I would want to remove the screw again at some point?
4. Should I avoid putting many holes in the bottom of the boat?

Just kidding on the last one.

Any help would be greatly appriciated. One other thing: I noticed a few small cracks in the deck, nothing large, but I'd think it wise to repair it now before allowing them to grow. Is this some particular type of fiberglass repair better suited for on the deck?

Thank you in advance for suggestions or direction.

 

[gcboat]

Re: Drilling and Cutting into Fiberglass

1) Use a hole saw the size of the cut out needed. Tape over the area you want to ruin - I mean cut. It's a lot nicer job if you start the blade backwards, yes backwards. Makes a starting 'groove' so the surrounding gel coat will not chip. Then place in forward and make your cut.

2) The hole saw will have a drill in the center of it for that purpose.

3) If you are NOT going through the hull then the only reason you would to use a sealer would be to keep the screws from backing out due to vibration.

4)

You could use a smaller drill bit to start the hole saw. It probably would be easier anyway.

In reference to the 'cracks' in your deck you should be able to get a gelcoat kit from your dealer. If not then get the name of the color and call these people :http://www.spectrumcolor.com/default_main.asp

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Drilling and Cutting into Fiberglass

a drop or 2 of 4200 sealer is advisable on any screw hole to seal the edge of the hole. i totally agree with gc's hole saw method. on the cracks in the deck. drill a small hole at each end. this will stop it from running further, then do the patch.

 

[cigar_stub]

Re: Drilling and Cutting into Fiberglass

Thank you both for the suggestions. Driling the hole at either end of the crack makes good sense. Thanks again.