Harry Krause wrote:

dunk wrote:

Am owner of a used Carolina Skiff J-16. Would like to install a
pedestal seat forward of the side console station. Now sure is it's
okay to drill into the deck. Any advice would be welcome.


You'd best call the factory; there's likely nothing substantial under
that deck that would hold the screws, and I don't believe the deck is
thick enough for fiberglass "molys."

I have no idea what a fiberglass "moly" is but Harry makes up crazier
**** than that. If he's imagining a "molly bolt" forget that and move on.

If the deck is thick enough, and there is some room to work under it, I
would consider cutting a hole maybe 18" away from the mounting point and
installing a flush, gasketed, deck plate. Now you can install your base
with proper backing plates and have access to tighten - or remove - the
base later. Make sure you use nylon lock nuts or some loctite to keep
everything in place. A little 3M 5200 under the base will also help if
you don't plan on removing it later. Use 316 stainless nuts, washers,
and backing plates for the best results in a salt water environment.

If you aren't sure if the deck is thick enough or if there is something
under it that would be in the way, I would contact Carolina Skiff for
help with that.

Good luck,
Dan