2002 Sportster Tracking Fin thru bolt?

[zeusjd]

1st post. Has anyone had experience obtaining access (from inside the boat) to the tracking fin bolts as come through the hull? I've read thru the forum how most folks attempt the fix from the bottom (new glass & gel re-tap the holes) but I'd sure like to know if there's a better way to repair if you have off season time. I've looked at blind nuts etc. but I'm not comfortable w/ the that.

[Baddog]

1st post. Has anyone had experience obtaining access (from inside the boat) to the tracking fin bolts as come through the hull? I've read thru the forum how most folks attempt the fix from the bottom (new glass & gel re-tap the holes) but I'd sure like to know if there's a better way to repair if you have off season time. I've looked at blind nuts etc. but I'm not comfortable w/ the that.

You REALLY don't want to through bolt a fin. Think about what would happen if you hit something so hard that it ripped the fin off. That nut and washer on the bilge side will go with the fin and create a hole in your hull that even the little Dutch boy can't seal and copious water will come through at a rate that will astound you.