I removed my fugly swim platforms today and plan on replacing next time boat is hauled with some custom-made units. The new units will be made to match the existing (8) bolt holes. How can I temporarily patch the bolt holes so the boat is usable in the interim?

My idea is: Stainless bolts/washers through the holes with neoprene washers under each end, all gooped-up with 5200...

Any other suggestions are greatly appreciated.

D. Ocean
Pompano Beach, FLA

I would not use 5200. It can be a PITA to get the bolts out. You can also just put a Dowel in there with resin. Then next year you can just drill it out when you put the new stuff on there.

I considered dowels w/resin, but that would require patching/sanding the outside of the hull. If I were to permanently close the holes, I'd go this route.

OK. How 'bout bolts/washers & 4200?

Any problem using neoprene beneath the waterline?

D. Ocean
Pompano Beach, FLA

Bolts, washers and 4200 should be fine.

I have and will to continue to use a two part filler by name of marine -tex.I have applyed it in 5 ft of water to a metal hull and used it to bond my daughthers sailboat deck to the hull .once hard ,a matter of a hour or two its grindable and sandable.It can be tapped and drilled.

If it was me I would use bolts, fender washers and either 4200 or rubber sealing washer with 4200. You can get nice sealing washers from McMaster Carr. (mcmastercarr.com) If you use 5200 you will work REALLY hard are removing it.

that is what i would use, get oversized flat washers and use a good bit of the 4200 you will be good to go

toilet tank bolts