Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: Screws for rails

Posted by Weatherly on 04/29/16 - 6:35 AM
#4

Dggriffin369: Are you asking what type of screw to use to attach the side rails into the boat? If so, I use size 10X1 Oval Phillips stainless steel metal screws. I bought a box of 100 at Ace hardware, item #823692, so I always have spares. Be sure that the short horizontal stanchion is in the stern; and screw into the wood-backing interior gunwale areas. The wood substrate on a 16 blue hull is usually visible in sunlight, that is, for both the side rail locations, as well as the bowrail horizontal stanchion base mounting locations.

Regarding rail t-fittings, when I have to upgrade the fittings, I use the hotdog stainless method and the round-head screws with lock bushings, which I always buy from Fred Caldwell or Shawn at CMI Marine, South Weymouth, MA., tel 781-740-1260. If you call Fred on or about the 4th of May, wish him a happy birthday.

Finally, 2 years ago I bought a pair of brand new 16 blue hull fit stainless steel side rails (Nauset Marine, Orleans, MA. $455.) with allen head t-fittings and even though I tightened them, I found more than one allen head screw laying on the deck after a rough ride out on Cape Cod Bay. I also do not like how the allen head screws leave just enough head protruding from the t-fitting that can gash your skin if you rub up against it.