View Full Version : Install of Tower
RTURRINI
06-20-2009, 04:29 PM
I have a 2000 Mari Star 210 and am putting on a zero flex tower. I have figured out where the holes for the front legs go but on the passenger side I have found a 2 by2 inch square piece of metal bonded into the fiber glass on the back side of the deck just where the hole is suppose to go. Does anyone know why the metal square was put into the glass and if I can cut it out. Also any suggestions on how to drill the holes without running the risk of cracking the fiber glass. Thanks for the help. RTurrini
Hoosier Bob
06-20-2009, 04:36 PM
Can't help with why but alot on here tape the area with Duck Tape. Mark the location on the Duck Tape and drill away! Protects the gel. I am assuming you are worried about the gel as that is the tough part. Pics as always! That helps!
TMCNo1
06-20-2009, 04:41 PM
The plate was probably placed there for a optional tower I guess.
Tape the hole area, lay out the holes, drill a pilot hole and I used a Vari-Bit to penetrate the gelcoat/fiberglass, then cleaned everything up,
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Hoosier Bob
06-20-2009, 04:45 PM
Nice Harold!;)The plate was probably placed there for a optional tower I guess.
Tape the hole area, lay out the holes, drill a pilot hole and I used a Vari-bit to penetrate the glass, then cleaned everything up,
48568
48569
48570
SaltwaterMC
06-20-2009, 04:55 PM
The metal plates are glassed in for backing plates for a tower. If the hole you drill goes through the metal plate, then you picked the right place to mount the tower. You should have metal backing plates on each of the four mounting points for the tower legs.
TMCNo1
06-20-2009, 08:19 PM
In post # 3, I referenced a Vari-Bit, here it is. It will drill a hole faster as explained in the note, but will leave the hole edge in the gelcoat much cleaner, when used at high speed and very light pressure,
48571
Lenox 30883-VB3 9-Hole Vari-Bit (1/4" to 3/4"). When professionals cut thin or thick-gauge materials, they reach for Lenox Vari-Bits. Vari-Bits eliminate the problem of tip breakage on standard drill bits. The Lenox Vari-Bits feature high speed steel construction and steam oxide coating. A patented design two cutting flutes allow for clean burr-free holes. These bits will cut through materials faster than standard bits, including stainless steel up to 1/8" thick. Hole sizes: 1/4, 5/16, 3/8, 7/16, 1/2, 9/16, 5/8, 11/16, 3/4".
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What are those holes? I'm so excited, I can't wait to see your new tower 8p
TMCNo1
06-20-2009, 10:41 PM
What are those holes? I'm so excited, I can't wait to see your new tower 8p
Cleats and I probably should have stated they were posted as a example of how to drill holes, but..................:o
hawaiianstiln
06-20-2009, 10:43 PM
drill in reverse first until you hit the fiberglass. Then chuck it in the forward position and drill thru the fiberglass. I have seen lots of people drill holes with the bit rotating forward thru the gelcoat first and see stress cracks later.
BriEOD
06-21-2009, 08:59 AM
Harold is that Black and Decker FireStorm drill? :D (I hope it is a Milwaukee)
C'mon bro...gotta get you some decent tools! 8p
TMCNo1
06-21-2009, 10:28 AM
Harold is that Black and Decker FireStorm drill? :D (I hope it is a Milwaukee)
C'mon bro...gotta get you some decent tools! 8p
Yep, had it for years, trouble free, good batteries and charger and does all I need it to do.
hawaiianstiln
06-21-2009, 02:25 PM
yep, I have the same firestorm drill. My damn dewalt 12v went out before the firestorm. Name brands aren't everything! :)