06-12-2012, 07:22 AM
The method I used was to locate the Weaver brackets on the platform and mark the hole layout, then drill the platform with an oversize drill. The Weaver mounts are sized for 1/4" fasteners & I drilled 1/2" holes. Then use masking tape on the bottom of the platform to close the holes and fill them with epoxy (I used West Systems). Give the epoxy several days to reach full cure then drill the epoxy plugs with a #7 drill and tap with 1/4-20 threads. Use 1/4-20 fasteners and plenty of sealant (I used 3M 4200) to attach the brackets. I use the epoxy plug method for any cored structure (hardtop, platform) to provide a 2nd barrier to keep water out of the core. Normally I would just use through bolts and nuts in the epoxy plug but the bottom of the platform on my 32 Open did not have a flat surface so I went the tapped hole route. Eight seasons later everything is holding up well!

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