---

The screws on my Montauk 17 bow rail have gotten very loose on the port and starboard mounting areas. What is the best way to re-secure the bow rail? I plan on installing a new bow rail actually because a tree fell on my old one.

I remember reading a thread about using rivets as the best way to mount the Montauk railings, but I can't find it.

---

It is under: Articles -> Repair Articles -> How to fix rattling bow or side rails.

---

Thanks Joe. Do you use rivets to secure your rails?

---

I believe the rivets were used to connect the rail joints together not to fasten them to the deck.
I do remember seeing posts here about filling the existing holes with epoxy or something then re-drilling the holes to tighten the mounting screws.

Joe will know

---

I haven't had to use rivets to hold the railing together.

As action mentions, you want to fill screw holes in the hull if necessary to secure the railing to the boat.

---

Action, thanks. Now I understand. I was ready to shoot rivets into the deck.

---

If you are going to use the old deck holes because of looseness.....I like to put in a small splinter with a two part inject- able expoxy. The splinter gives the screw more bite than the epoxy by itself. Too big a splinter does not seem to work as well.
Garris

---

Gchuba, what is a splinter?

---

Sorry, shim or wedge of wood to help fill the hole. Along the lines of a fat toothpick. I fitted quite a few old doors and hinges that failed. The mounting was already mortised in place. I never found a filler that could hold the thread of the original screws until I put in a small shim/wedge/splinter in for bite. Too big a piece (and you would think bigger the better) and the old screw would not take as well. If really stripped 2 smaller pieces. For the boat I use some teak I have around and whittle off a piece. Oak would do well. Use a hardwood. You can dry fit with the screw before the epoxy.
Garris