Head Sail Track Bolts

[gigglingdolphins]

During the refit of Giggling Dolphins we removed the port and starboard tracks for the head sail. When we re-installed the tracks we found that some of the bolts would no longer engage with the nuts that (we think) were fiber glassed in place. Has this ever happened to anyone else? Any suggestions for a fix. It seems that the nuts in this area are not accessible.

[Bill]

Redrill the sail tracks with oversized holes (3/4"), will with epoxy and colloidal power (strength), insert machine screws or lag screws. This is quick work so be sure you have everything ready. Spray your screws with Pam or Cooking spray to help them release. It is best to drill your main hole about 1/2" short of your screw size if you use lag screws, that way you can put a bit of pressure on the track when you insert the screws. On our tracks we varied every other hole with a lag or machine screw. You will be able to tighten down when the epoxy is set about 1/2 turn or so on the machine screws.

[nickgotwater]

Good day, I'm about to get in to replacing both headsail tracks (cracks in both) on my Unoin 36. Just wanted to see how this worked out for you. Seems like the only option.

[Bill]

Hi Nick,

We redid ours about 8 years ago or so. We have about 7,000 miles under the keel since the repair and no issues.

Bill