Bow chocks - bolted or screwed on?

[CruisingElvinRay]

Working my way around the boat checking on external stuff, I found that both bow chocks are a little loose on both sides. Attempts to tighten the fasteners don't help - the screws free spin. Since we use these extensively when anchoring and when docked, I'd like to tighten them up.

The questions is: Are the fasteners (Philips head, BTW) screws that are stripped? Or, are they through-bolted? Hopefully the latter, as these chocks see as much stress, or more, than the cleats do. Assuming the latter, can I access the nuts from the interior if I remove the header panels? Since I have twisted the fasteners, I need to reseal them at the very least, since this area can see a lot of water in heavy seas.

 

[Rocky]

They should be thru-bolted with backing plates. If they are loose - I would at least think of removinhg them, cleaning it all up and rebedding with your seal of choice for deck hardware. (no recommendation there- i don;t want to start that heated debate 🙂 )

I hope that helps.

Rocky

 

[CruisingElvinRay]

I agree they should be bolted with backing plates. Before I start removing interior panels, I want to know that I can access the back side.


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[CruisingElvinRay]

Ok, I figured this out with some investigation. Removing the deck panels in the berth, and peeling away the side covering material gives you access to the bolts. There is a curve to the fiberglass at that spot, and the backing washers formed to the curve over time. Re-bedding and tightening the bolts made the chocks rock solid again.


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