Drilling Holes

[krafty81]

I picked up a small rubber handle, kind of like a kayak handle, I am going to mount on my Port lazerette. There currently is no handle or way to open it except for pressure on the sides, which my wife does not like.

I am going to drill two holes in the aft portion of the lazarette to mount the handle. Anything I should look our for when drilling them? I am going to do from the inside out, then mount the handle with SS screws and washers on both sides. Thanks.

[Jim Hardesty]

I am going to drill two holes in the aft portion of the lazarette to mount the handle. Anything I should look our for when drilling them? I am going to do from the inside out, then mount the handle with SS screws and washers on both sides.

Shouldn't be a problem, it's solid glass there.  I started lifting the lid with the hasp worked but during one cruise I kept scuffing/cutting my shin on the hasp.  I took the hasp off and replaced it with a loop of webbing, used same screws with trim washer. That was many seasons ago, I've had to replace the webbing due to UV/weathering but no other problems.  No more bloody shin.  Did loose the ability to lock the lazarette but I feel no need to do that.  And if I did, the old hasp is still on Shamrock.
FWIW the hasp was held with sheet metal screws thru the fiberglass and cut flush. You may consider this if the back clearance where you want to mount the handle is close.
Jim
 

[Ron Hill]

Krafty : When I drill holes that are thru fiberglass and have at least one finished surface, I put a piece of tape, mark the hole and then drill. I've found that the tape keeps the finished surface from splintering!!

A few thoughts

[krafty81]

Thanks I plan on doing that. Also going to drill from the inside out to make sure I don't
"wander" on the hole. Tomorrow is the day!