I'm installing two badly needed cleats on my 22 Classic. They will be through bolted on solid uncored glass deck. They don't come with backing plates. Are large SS washers ok to use or should I cut plates from aluminum stock? Thanks. Carl.

backing plate are better when totally flat on the inside mounting surface

Backing plates if possible. If not totally flat bed the backing plates in with an adhesive filler. Install the cleat, let the filler cure, then final tighten the next day.


For a smaller boat, you can use SS fender washers, then a medium washer, then a small washer.

I used aluminum plates I made.

Kind of depends how much force you foresee the cleats being exposed to. If all you ever do is tie the boat up to a dock in a fully protected area, fender washers might be enough. If you foresee any possibility of tying up in rougher conditions - or maybe even towing the boat via that cleat, a backing plate is highly recommended. Remember, a backing plate now is a hell of a lot less expensive than fiberglass and gelcoat damage later.

They may take some force. I guess I'll make backing plates out of a piece of aluminum I have. Maybe bond the plates with 4200. It should be flat but not smooth underneath. Thanks.