I need to install some small drains for a Accon pop up cleat and light. What is the best/correct method of drilling the hole. Looks like it will be about 3/8 of inch.

Do I drill from the inside or the outside? How do I keep from chipping the gell coat?

Thanks,

Drill in reverse at low rpm with a new, sharp bit for your jig saw entry hole. Once through the gel, you can drill in right rotation. Use a fine down cut blade once in the entry hole and take your time.....frequently changing the blade while using liberal amounts of wd40. Also, put down lots of blue tape before starting."make your marks....then go...

Thanks but I wont need the jig saw, this is just for the through hull drain, the cleats are already in. I just need to drill a 3/8 in hole in the side of the boat.

You are going to drill holes in your boat for drains for your cleats????

Umm, no!!!

The drains are designed to just be run inside the boat with hose and drain into the bilge. They don't get plumbed directly outside the boat!

Mine are plumbed through thru hulls. The front cleats and bow light are in spaces that dont have access to a common bilge, so short of draining them into the cabin, overboard is the only option.

That is also my observation. Besides why drain int the bilge. I like to keep the bilge dry as possible.

So, is it best to start the drill from the outside and go through the gell first?

Those pop up drains are designed to drain wherever you choose to run them.

Drill from the outside, other wise you will chip the gel big time when the drill breaks thru.
Drill with a steady light pressure, just enough to cut. Heavy pressure will make the drill act like a screw and chip the gel. use a slightly dull bit, or knock the sharp edge off with a stone works best, otherwise just go slow and easy. Tape over the hole can help some too.

I always use tape and don't take it off like a band-aid. Peel it toward the center. Also when I start drilling I run the bit in reverse until I get through the gel and even deeper.

Thanks everyone!