Replacing Horizon with ST60's holes too big.

[kerk fisher]

I am replacing (on the bulkhead) old Horizon instruments with 4" mounting holes with new ST60 instruments with 3 1/2" mounting holes. New mounting screw holes are very close to the cutouts. How do I fill in the extra space so the new instruments have something to grab on to? Thanks, Kerk

[Ron Hill]

Kerk : What I'd do is buy yourself a piece of Starboard (a white poly plastic - look in West marine or Defender).  It's 1/2" thick and is easy to work with.  Cut the correct size holes in it and then remount the instrument over the holes that are too large.  Use caulk to seal the poly board to the bulkhead.  You could use teak, but that's more maintenance.  Your wiring should have enough slack for that extra 1/2". Good luck  

[Jon Schneider]

I'll be doing the same thing in the next month,  and as Ron suggests, I'll be using a piece of Starboard as well, but I'm planning on using it on the inside of the bulkhead so that the exterior maintains the original flat surface, while the Starboard backing provides reinforcement from the rear.

[Rick Johnson]

I had the same problem on my C30.  I bought the ST-60 Flush Mount kit which requires a square hole approx 4.25 x 4.5.  Everything fit well and I decided I liked the flush look better on the bulkhead.  Well worth the cost of the flush mount kit.

[kerk fisher]

Thanks for your advice!! Two months away from setting sail. We're excited!! Kerk