Replacing/reseting cover snap posts

[quailrunner]

I need to reset (or replace) several of the snap posts (the male part set into the hull of the boat) on my 185. Anyone know of a web site with directions/advice, or have advice of their own? It appears that I will need to remove the post, fill the hole with something, and then redrill and screw it in. Is this the general approach used? Any thoughts on a material for filler?

 

[jason78]

I need to reset (or replace) several of the snap posts (the male part set into the hull of the boat) on my 185. Anyone know of a web site with directions/advice, or have advice of their own? It appears that I will need to remove the post, fill the hole with something, and then redrill and screw it in. Is this the general approach used? Any thoughts on a material for filler?

You can get the replacement posts from Great Lakes. If one has come loose you can step up one size on the threads and put the new one in tight with no repairs. Be careful, you may have to actually drill a slightly larger hole to accomidate the larger screw shaft or you could crack the gelcoat. The Snap is the same size so you won't tell the difference once installed.

Mine required a #10 for replacement posts. I think the originals were #8. Check with Great Lakes to be sure for your boat.

 

[Gogstad]

+1 on the replacements from Great Lakes...they are nice to deal with.

I have just filled the hole with 3m marine sealant and reset the post inside. Cures in 24 hours and so far, none have 're-loosened' that I have repaired that way. The only downside is no matter what I do, once you open one of those tubes and squeeze some out, the nozzle hardens and you cant get any more out the next time you need some. But, it works great the first time.

Hope that helps..

 

[TexasA&M]

I just fill the hole with the 3M sealant and put the screw back in. I haven't had any re-loosen either.

To keep the sealant for use again, just pull the nozzle off and put the regular lid back on. The nozzle will harden up, but you can clean it out after the fact.

 

[Gogstad]

the tube I get only has a lid. I squeeze some out, put the lid back on tight and when I go back (even if after only a week) the whole top of the tube is solid as a rock. I end up cutting off a corner to squeeze some out that way....pain in the a$$

 

[Uplate]

I bought the West system fiberglass kit when doing this work. To do a clean job put some painter masking tape around your hole before applying the glass mixture. this will keep any exess off of the areas surrounding the snap. Mix up some of the micro balloon thicking powder to get it real pasty so it does not fall through the hole.

After about 10 minutes I set the snap with the screw still attached into the expoxy filled hole. Another 10 minutes or so I remove the masking tape. always has worked for me and have never had a repair fail.....yet.

 

[box_man00]

i use "kitty hair" it is a filler product made by Bondo that has fiberglass resin and fiber hairs in it. its available at all automotive stores. It comes in two sizes. large hair and small hair. ( i use the small hair) it mixes just like bondo. a resin and hardener. it sets in about 25 minutes. mix up a small amount and use a gloved finger or small putty knife to fill the hole, let it set, then redrill your hole and your good to go.

 

[rikdrt1]

i had the cockpit cover fly off on the freeway (probably some air got in - not sure) but it yanked on several and now i ahve to replace about 6 or so + i need a new cover since it ripped... (bummed) -- i thought there was no way that would fly off - i guess i was wrong - it looked tight when i put it together..

 

[tbirdvet]

the tube I get only has a lid. I squeeze some out, put the lid back on tight and when I go back (even if after only a week) the whole top of the tube is solid as a rock. I end up cutting off a corner to squeeze some out that way....pain in the a$$

I have the same issue using 5200. A waste of sealant. You would think for the price they charge they could give you an extra cap.

 

[jmlloyd526]

I just fill the hole with the 3M sealant and put the screw back in. I haven't had any re-loosen either. ]



I have done the same.

 

[jrcinnh]

Mix up JB Weld, or Marine tex, fill the hole, butter up the threads and stick it back in.

Once you have the goop mixed up, check around for other loose snaps or screws and do them at the same time.

 

[GottaLuvit]

I agree, JB weld or maine tex works great and you can mix what you need. I use a paper plate and plastic knife and throw away when done. MIx it thoroughly, fill the whole, place the snap in and let it dry. Works great for all other loose screws on doors, tops , etc.

 

[Captain Allen]

I almost hate to admit doing this, but it worked. I used some very small plastic hollow wall anchors, the kind you tap in with a hammer, and then re-inserted the stud. It held fine and does not show if you seat the anchor all the way down. I have used this method on about 4 snap studs and all have held.