capitan seat pedestal screws ripped out

[Michboater]

Hello everyone, I have a 97 carver 325 Aft and yesterday my Capitan seat pedestal screws ripped out of the deck because I leaned to far back in the seat. All the screws come out clean as the pedestal pulled away from the deck. There is no damage to the deck or the wood as I closely inspected the area and the holes. Looking into the screw hole, it appeared that there may be a metal like plate under the wood that the machine screws mounted into. Some people I asked said to re-drill new holes and use stainless wood screws, others recommended drilling a bigger hole and using anchors that will lock underneath. I don't think I can remove the headliner in the salon to get access, otherwise I would use a bolt with a locking nut. I am looking for any advice on how to re-mount the pedestal and what the construction of the upper deck may be. I am a bigger guy so I really need this to be solid. Thank you everyone.

[Viper]

Welcome aboard.

The deck is cored. If indeed there is a metal plate there, the threads may be shot. You can try drilling and re-tap to a larger size thread, failing that, use anchors and bolt it, the pedestal will be more secure with bolts than screws. Be extra diligent in sealing the holes properly to avoid water ingress that will ruin the core.

[tomschauer]

The plate in there is most likely aluminum. Determine the existing bolt size and get bolts, a drill and a tap for the next size up. Make sure use fine threads as the plate is most likely only 3/16 or 1/4". Use stainless bolts and seal properly as mentioned.
Also, don't lean back so far

[Michboater]

Wonderful, thank you all. And I won't lean back anymore...lol

[bud37]

Welcome to the forum.....just to add, I agree with the oversize and tap......when you get it all fitted, use a fairly strong sealant adhesive as that will add an extra measure to the fasteners when it cures....

[tomschauer]

Also use some locktite on the bolts so they don't slowly come loose, which is most likely what happened.