R22 Discussion Group

When I rebuilt my 1976 R22 I discovered that the genoa tracks were attached with bolts screwed directly into the fiberglass without nuts or washers on the underside. I thought at the time that this was the work of some early substandard contractors who were used to build early boats. In spite of the fact that the tracks had stayed in place for 40 years without problems I re-drilled all of the holes and attached the tracks with bolts, washers and locknuts.

I subsequently learned that this method of fastening was exactly what Stan intended and so my refit was another unnecessary "repair" that I made. That said, the fact that the bolts screwed directly into the fiberglass resulted in spider web cracks in the gel coat around each hole (mostly hiffen under the track) and since I was refinishing the deck at the time I grinding out and re-glassing all cracks anyway and wanted to ensure that the cracks didn't return.

It probably would have been sufficient to simply countersink the holes to eliminate future cracks - which I did anyway - but whether necessary or not I just feel more comfortable with the nuts and washers installed.

Graham Stewart
Agile, Rodes 22, 1976
Kingston Ontario

The Rhodes 22 Discussion Group

Graham Stewart

Unbolted track