The top step is supposed to be screwed into the back of the boat.(from underneath it no less - felt like an acrobatic trying to do this) Turns out there really isn't anything for the screws to be screwed into. We are thinking we need to go through from the Aft Cabin with lag bolts. This will require a metal plate and extra work. Then we have to be creative about how to cover up the metal plate. The stairs also won't go snug against the boat. I think we have to live with that. Any other ideas would certainly be welcomed.spiral stairs install
- Cheryl
- Scurvy Dog

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- Vessel Info: 1989 36' Carver Aft
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spiral stairs install
We are attempting to install the Salter Spiral Stairs onto the back of our 1989 36' foot Carver Aft Cabin.
The top step is supposed to be screwed into the back of the boat.(from underneath it no less - felt like an acrobatic trying to do this) Turns out there really isn't anything for the screws to be screwed into. We are thinking we need to go through from the Aft Cabin with lag bolts. This will require a metal plate and extra work. Then we have to be creative about how to cover up the metal plate. The stairs also won't go snug against the boat. I think we have to live with that. Any other ideas would certainly be welcomed.
The top step is supposed to be screwed into the back of the boat.(from underneath it no less - felt like an acrobatic trying to do this) Turns out there really isn't anything for the screws to be screwed into. We are thinking we need to go through from the Aft Cabin with lag bolts. This will require a metal plate and extra work. Then we have to be creative about how to cover up the metal plate. The stairs also won't go snug against the boat. I think we have to live with that. Any other ideas would certainly be welcomed.You do not have the required permissions to view the files attached to this post.
- Jab
- Scurvy Dog

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Moosehead Lake, Maine - Been thanked: 1 time
Re: spiral stairs install
Maybe a silly question, but where do the 4 holes in the picture go? Into the hull/core, through the hull/core into the boat interior (aft-cabin?), or into a space between the hull/core and interior wall?
If it's the last one I can offer a simple solution....
If it's the last one I can offer a simple solution....
- Cheryl
- Scurvy Dog

- Posts: 8
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Re: spiral stairs install
We put in the 4" bolts that came with it and when we look in the aft, we can see just a shadow of the tip on the bolt pushing on the carpet of the interior wall. So they are just about through.
- waybomb
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1987 3697 Carver Mariner
1988 Cougar 46 Kevlar Vee offshore
1969 15' Glasspar / 1967 Johnson Electromatic 85 - Location: Saint Joseph,Mi
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Re: spiral stairs install
The proper way to seal any hole through a cored section is to dig out some core on the outside of the hole and fill the void with fiberglass and resin.
Then when you bolt through, use a Marine Caulk, such as BoatLife or 3M 4200 or 5200. DO NOT USE SILICONE as a sealer or adhesive!
Then when you bolt through, use a Marine Caulk, such as BoatLife or 3M 4200 or 5200. DO NOT USE SILICONE as a sealer or adhesive!
Thanks
Fred
1969 Glaspar Avalon /1967 Johnson Electromatic 85
1987 Carver Mariner
1988 Cougar Kevlar 46' with triple blown 572 ci
1995 Boston Whaler Rage
Past - 1988 2807, 1989 4207 Aft
Fred
1969 Glaspar Avalon /1967 Johnson Electromatic 85
1987 Carver Mariner
1988 Cougar Kevlar 46' with triple blown 572 ci
1995 Boston Whaler Rage
Past - 1988 2807, 1989 4207 Aft
- Jab
- Scurvy Dog

- Posts: 39
- Joined: September 13th, 2013, 6:26 pm
- Vessel Info: 1978 Santa Cruz 2866
Moosehead Lake, Maine - Been thanked: 1 time
Re: spiral stairs install
Ditto above. Here is a link to one very detailed description of options to repair holes.
http://www.westsystem.com/ss/repairing- ... iberglass/
Now, IF the 4" distance from outside to inside has empty space (likely), then you can do the following. Cut a hole next to where you need to mount. Properly install an access deck plate (see link for examples). This will allow you to bolt securely to outer hull using backing plate and correctly sized bolts. The deck plate will be hidden by the stairs, but even if exposed- if properly installed- will look like any other fitting. I have done this on several boats for mounting after-market equipment, running new wire/accessories, etc.
http://www.beckson.com/screwout.html
Might work for your application......
Joe
http://www.westsystem.com/ss/repairing- ... iberglass/
Now, IF the 4" distance from outside to inside has empty space (likely), then you can do the following. Cut a hole next to where you need to mount. Properly install an access deck plate (see link for examples). This will allow you to bolt securely to outer hull using backing plate and correctly sized bolts. The deck plate will be hidden by the stairs, but even if exposed- if properly installed- will look like any other fitting. I have done this on several boats for mounting after-market equipment, running new wire/accessories, etc.
http://www.beckson.com/screwout.html
Might work for your application......
Joe