CD27 - Attaching to the bulkhead

[csoule13]

Getting ready to attach a small teak board on the bulkhead by the electrical panel to mount a battery meter and 12v outlet. Any tips on how to attach screws to this? Drill and tap, or just a normal pilot hole and screw?

Thanks as always,
Chris

[tjr818]

I don't know which model Cape Dory you have, but most of them have solid fiberglass in that area and it is common to use sheet metal screws to anchor to the solid fiberglass, if there is little load on the screws. Through bolting is better for objects that have a heavier load, but getting around to the other side to hold the nut makes that impractical in that area.

[csoule13]

Thanks Tim, I also have the 27, which if I had proofread the topic, would have caught. Looking forward to wrapping this little project up. I have a sneaking suspicion it's going to tell me it's time to get at least one new battery before splashing next spring.

[tjr818]

I find a second battery a comfort. I have only once run my main battery down to zero and it was so nice to just flip the switch over to the second battery and start the old YSM8.

[csoule13]

Agreed, I just have a few observations that says one of the two isn't in the best of health. Yet, no voltmeter. Will post a photo of final install.