Installing Rod Holders-Transom

[Bullish]

I bought two for my transom from the factory to make sure I got the right product. I believe they are 30 degree so they fit in the transom on my 28 correctly.

I also have the hardware needed and sealant/cauk.

Anyone that has done this before, do you remember how big a hole I have to cut out? Does the whole need to be angled or straight?

Any guidance/advice to avoid some pitfalls and potential screw-ups is appreciated. I am getting stressed about cutting big holes in my boat.

[Hawk]

Measure twice and cut once! Try cutting a sample on a scrap pc of plywood first so you can take a look how it will sit and take some measurements to check for clearance.Be sure to check for any wires below the gunnel before cutting into your boat and make sure you use the right size drill bit to pre drill the holes for the screws or you will stip or snap the screw.
Good luck
Dennis

[CClassic28]

The hole needs to be drilled on the same angle as the rod holder. The 30* fit as long as they are the shorter (9") rod holders. You will need to favor the aft side of the gunnel so the bottom of the holder will clear the back of the coaming pads. I do not rember the hole saw size but I think it is about 2-1/4".

Good luck,

Chris

[Bullish]

Thanks! No coaming pads so one less thing to worry about.

[billh1963]

What kind of caulk/sealant are you using? 3M's 4200 or 5200?

[Reel Happy]

Jig...

We haven't tackled this on the classic but did on the previous boat. We took two pieces of 1/4" plywood and cut them into triangles with the coordinating angle. A couple spacers and bolts and you have a slide for the drill that will keep it at the angle you want.

[Bullish]

I bought the caulk a month ago and it's already on the boat. I can't remember which one....I just remember that it is not permanent. 3M makes a product that is supposedly permanent or makes it very difficult to ever take apart someday.

I went with the recommended version that is non-permanent. They will be through-bolted anyhow.

I was thinking of "eyeballing" the 30 degree angle but maybe I should make a jig. Can you describe a little further how this would work? I can't picture it.

[billh1963]

Sounds like you are using 3M 4200 ... good choice!

I think Reel Happy's jig looks like this. My drawing sucks but maybe it helps.

[Bullish]

The drawing helps to visualize but I don't see how to follow the plywood with a drill accurately. I was just thinking that I may drill two or three pieces of plywood with the correct size hole. Then place each piece of plywood on top of each other about one inch apart using a spacer and use the actual rod holder to get the correct degree by placing it through the holes.

Then I could place that jig on top of the gunnel and I would have my correct angle. I could use the existing holes in the plywood as my guide.

What do you think?

[gofshn]

here is a very simple way to make a jig. if any questions call me at 336-462-2797.

take your rod holder and lay it up against the side of a 2x4 and mark the angle needed, use a hole saw appropriate for the od of the rod holder, drill a hole using the hole saw thru the 2x4 and set the rod holder in it, you may have to drill a few times to get the angle right.....if it fits flush, you now have a jig for the proper angle, use this 2x4 and lay it on top of the area you intend to put your rod ho0lder, have a friend hold the board down and use the board as a guide for the hole saw, perfect angle every time.