toddn.robinson Posted June 16, 2017 Report Share Posted June 16, 2017 Finally painted my Vardo, except for some purely decorative stuff to come later, and I'm all but ready for a test paddle. However, I'd first like to install some deck lines. Unfortunately, I'm not sure of the appropriate size hardware. I'm planning to use 3/8 inch deck eyes, and to run 1/4 inch bungee through them. Drill pilot holes into the top edge of the gunnels, drizzle some silicon in then attach the deck eyes with 1/2 inch x #6 wood screws? #4s? I don't want to risk hurting my gunnels. How have others proceeded? Also thinking about installing a section of pvc pipe (two lengthwise parallel cuts to get a section of pipe) along my keel to protect my skin from abuse while launching. Have others taken this step, or it's not really necessary? Thanks everyone. I'm hoping for launch pictures next week. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kudzu Posted June 16, 2017 Report Share Posted June 16, 2017 I recommend rub strips, but you don't have to have them. Just don't beach the boat everytime you get in and out. I typically pull up parallel to the bank and get out (and in). If you are going to beach the boat you need something. I like the bronze strips myself, they are bullet proof. I ran out a while ago but with spring here I need to stock up on them. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
labrat Posted June 18, 2017 Report Share Posted June 18, 2017 Todd, I don't claim this is the best way but this is how I did my deck bungy fit. Made loops from webbing - cut a length, folded and then melted a hole through. Used an old soldering gun for both cutting and making the hole. Best to use polypropylene rather than nylon - uncoated nylon usually has less resistance to UV light. Screwed loops to side of gunwales - not the top. Two reasons for this: 1) side is wider than top so less likely to split the timber due to being too close to the edge, 2) I believe there is a slight mechanical advantage with the loop going around the edge of the gunwale. Either use a wide headed stainless screw or a stainless screw and washer. Bungy installed: 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
benhardt57 Posted June 19, 2017 Report Share Posted June 19, 2017 Thanks for your post! Might oughta go in the 'Tips and Tricks' folder? 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
andy00 Posted June 20, 2017 Report Share Posted June 20, 2017 Lab Rat has this right. Only suggestion is to use finishing washers to secure straps. See pics. Fair winds, Andy 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kudzu Posted June 20, 2017 Report Share Posted June 20, 2017 I believe this is in the manual, I know it is in my books. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
benhardt57 Posted June 20, 2017 Report Share Posted June 20, 2017 Ah. That makes sense. There are so many good sources of information, it's hard for me to keep track of it all. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
toddn.robinson Posted June 20, 2017 Author Report Share Posted June 20, 2017 Thanks guys! I know that this method was suggested for painters but forgot that it was suggested for deck eyes. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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