Thank you for offering such unmitigated support to a sweet, innocent,
fresh-faced n00b.

Wally, a few moments of research could produce the info you want. You might
also join a few of the Sailnet groups which could provide you with FAR more
genuine info that this group can provide.
If you want a "proper" repair, you need to rebed those U bolts, even if you
have to cut them out. It's done all the time on low-end boats. Most recently I
watched a guy do exactly that job on a small Chrysler boat. But wouldn't you
prefer more feedback from a far bigger group that this one?
Get a clue, Wally. Puh-lease!

RB