[South Sound Steve]

I would like to mount downriggers on the gunnel between the two rod holders on a 2003 35 Tiara open. My preference would be to through bolt them with backing material rather than just screw them in to the fiberglass.

My question is, how thick is the gunnel, is it solid glass or is there some sort of core material, and are there any wires or hoses running under the gunnel I need to be aware of? Sort of a call before you drill type question.

Many thanks in advance

Steve

[trit21]

It is cored i do believe as my gunnels are showing some sign of rot under the fiberglass as they are soft. Not sure how thick it is but if you look under the gunnel pad you can see where the rold holders are and you might be able to figure out how thick they are. I would definately bolt thru and make sure you seal it well. I am trying to figure out how to repair mine right now. Not sure if Tiara still has the mold for them or not but maybe I will call them.

[Chris Burkard]

Yes, the gunnels are cored on your 35 Open. Total thickness should be about 1". Those gunnels are cored with Balsa, so do not screw into them for something as stressing as a downrigger. The minimum would be to thru-bolt with fender washers underneath. Make sure you seal the holes as trit21 mentioned (Use a good silicone based marine caulking - applied liberally!). A backing plate would also be a good idea, but I do not think it is 100% necessary. Fender washers should be fine to handle the 40 - 50 ft.lbs. of force those bolts are going to feel. Measure 5 times and drill once!

Good Luck!