fixing launch wheels to transom

[timofleeds]

Hi I would like to fix launch wheels to my quicksilver inflateable. Is it ok to drill through the transom and the fabric of the boat where it is stuck to the transom? Also what would I use to seal the inside of the holes when I have drilled through to water proof them. I hope this makes sense.

Regards Tim

[Leapy]

Originally Posted by timofleeds

Hi I would like to fix launch wheels to my quicksilver inflateable. Is it ok to drill through the transom and the fabric of the boat where it is stuck to the transom? Also what would I use to seal the inside of the holes when I have drilled through to water proof them. I hope this makes sense.

Regards Tim

Yes, it's ok
Sikaflex
Yes, it makes sense coz I've just done it. If you search on here there are quite a few threads on launching wheels and sikaflex

[timofleeds]

On the ball or what!! Thanks Leapy

[prairie tuber]

Just be sure that the Sikaflex formula you use is the one that does NOT contain silicone (silicone will eat away at the resins in the plywood of the transom). Alternately, you could use the 3M 4300 (reversible) or 3M 5300 (irreversible).

[lightning]

What kind of wheels are you fitting? Plastic dolly wheels or the larger pneumatic type?
I recently fitted plastic wheels to my Zodiac. I did drill into the transom near the bottom, but I would advise leaving at least an inch between the lowest hole and the bottom.
Following advice I sealed everything with silicone sealant, plus on the mounting plates for the wheels (where the bolts go through) there was space for a small 0-ring, so I fitted those too.

[Leapy]

Originally Posted by lightning

What kind of wheels are you fitting? Plastic dolly wheels or the larger pneumatic type?

Here we go...RIBnet classic thread/opinion divider #2

[timofleeds]

Thanks for the replies. I am fitting the larger type, and will follow the advice given, thanks once again.

Tim