Question for UFM82 - Smart Tab installation

[BRG25]

I was reading your thread on your Smart Tab installation and I was wondering if you could go into a little more detail about how you avoided cracking the gelcoat? What size countersink bit did you use? I guess I'm not really clear about how to chamfer the screw holes. I've just received my Smart Tabs and will be installing them soon. Any other tips you could offer would be great.<br /><br />Thanks for your help.<br /><br />Brian

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: Question for UFM82 - Smart Tab installation

BRG25;<br />Drilling the first hole into your boat is extreemly difficult ---- or should I say emotonal!<br /><br />After drilling the 3/16th holes for the hinge and the transom bracket, use a larger (say 3/8 ) sharp drill bit and just touch the holes to bevel the edges. When you start to install the screw, if it is too difficult, stop. Remove it and hone out (run the 3/16th drill in and out of the hole) the hole a little. Fiberglass does not give like aluminium and wood, and you do not want to break the screw heads off. Obviously put the sealant tape on the boat over the holes before you run the screws in.