What is the easiest way to fix snap screws that have pulled out?

[Ozshadow]

I have two screw in snaps on the hull that have pulled out. They are for the mooring cover.

Do do they make snaps with larger screws or should I use something like epoxy?

 

[SeaAyeOwe]

I have two screw in snaps on the hull that have pulled out. They are for the mooring cover.

Do do they make snaps with larger screws or should I use something like epoxy?

There are lots and lots of threads on this site - and as many opinions. Use advanced search at the top right of the page and search snaps title only and plenty of threads will appear - my advice is take the most cautious route. And yes they do make a larger thread screw - I bought mine on eBay.

I personally have a brand new set of stainless Steele snaps to replace all of mine but having read the many threads on here I am glad I did not start it without being prepared with 4200 and a selection of the larger threaded snaps etc. etc. for when they are needed. I have bought a torque driver for my own install project because messing these up can be costly.

see this thread for starters.

http://clubsearay.com/showthread.php/9199-How-do-I-repair-a-loose-snap-that-screwed-into-the-hull

 

[Gofirstclass]

I've never tried it, but could you use a pop rivet?

 

[bbwhitejr]

I found over sized screw threads on eBay. They came from Harvard Marine. A dab of sealant and problem solved. I had 2 that were stripped and they worked great.

Bennett

 

[fwebster]

duplicate post …for some reason

 

[fwebster]

There is a danger in using oversized screw snaps…………when they pull out, it usually involves a much larger repair requiring matching and refinishing gelcoat. For that reason, I use epoxy to repair the hole, then re-drill the pilot hole for the screw and reinstall the same sized snap.

And, Mike, I have used pop rivets for blind applications like on the windshield frame. They work well, but if you can reach the back of the hole, why not just fix it properly.

 

[truk911]

The way to fix this is to dill out the damaged hole to get to solid gelcoat and fibreglass, a counter sink works great. Fill with epoxy (I use MarineTex) and let it cure, about an hour. Drill hole in the repair, smaller than snap screw. Apply 4200 to snap screw threads and screw in snap. Clean up using acetone. It's a permanent fix and the right way to fix it. If was traveling and needed a temporary repair I would probably jerry-rig something to make it work but since we all have so much tied up in our boats, the only way to do any repair is to do it the right way. It might take more time or cost a little more ($20 for MarineTex) in the end, you know you did it right.

 

[IanBat]

I had four, spoke with my cover guy, and he gave me a handful of the oversized screw snaps. They worked. However personally I favour with the the epoxy method.

I was considering trying to get to the rear of them, using a screw and nyloc nut, with an overside support washer, to spread the load.

 

[Gofirstclass]

Frank, I guess I was thinking of places where you can't get to the back side of the screw.

 

[Jimmy Buoy]

The problem I found with using many of the epoxy products is that to properly mix it you have to make much more than needed. Tired of wasting product and money, another boater put me onto this product...

http://www.westsystem.com/ss/new-six10-epoxy-adhesive/

It's like using calking from a tube, but there are two separate chambers within the tube. It utilizes a special disposable "mixing tip" that produces perfectly mixed epoxy every time. Use as little or as much as you want, remove and discard the tip, then reinstall the special plug so the epoxy and hardener stay fresh within the tube. Yes, it needs a new "mixing tip" each time, but they are sold in bags of 5 for around $20. I've had mine for years now and have used it at least 6 times. Perfect for little jobs like snap repair.

 

[fwebster]

When I suggest "epoxy", West Systems is what I mean. I couldn't live without their stuff and keep a gallon in m shop all the time. Six-10 is a life saver for me in Florida because the gal and qt. cans don't do well being stored in the summer heat.

 

[KC_Sundancer]

I was considering trying to get to the rear of them, using a screw and nyloc nut, with an oversize support washer, to spread the load.

I have done that before on our Pachanga, a two person job but the ultimate repair for never pulling out again.

 

[ZZ13]

I stuff Water Weld in screw holes that need plugging or repair.