Don't use self tapping screws. That is a poor way to attach deck
hardware and will likely create bigger problems down the road.

Agreed. And today I discovered that where I want to mount the pad eye is
accessible from both sides (on top of the deck and from underneath through the
bottom of the centerboard housing. All I need is a long extension on my socket
wrench and I can install a backing plate and nuts and bolts. And of course,
I'll seal every thing with marine epoxy.

Thanks for the advice


The Veridican