CONTINUOUSWAVE

Hi,
I am new to this forum and was unable to find the answer using the search function. I just purchased my first Whaler - a pre-1971 13 foot Sport. The Norman pin is missing, and the area it should be is glassed over. Is there a resource for locating the appropriate position to drill the pin hole? Is there wood sandwiched by fiberglass in this area? Are large flat washers used where the pin goes through? Also, if the original pin was torn out, does anyone have a suggestion for reinforcing the replacement install? My idea was to epoxy in a bearing sleeve to prevent the pin threads from tearing up the fiberglass. Thanks in advance!

After drilling a 3/8 hole for inspection, it appears that there should indeed be wood sandwiched between the fiber glass in this area. The old pin looks to have been torn out at some point. My idea now is to use a hole saw to drill out a larger section. Then epoxy any gaps and voids on the inside. I am thinking I can then epoxy in a pre drilled dowel to give the pin some support and refinish the fiberglass. Probably won't start this until a little later in the fall, but I will try to document it when I do. Any suggestions are most welcome.

Search the OLD FORUM for this topic

http://continuouswave.com/whaler/oldForum/

Thanks jimh. I've read about 5 pages of topics so far. Great info there. I haven't found specific answers yet, but I'm learning a lot!