thru hull fitting installation

Jon · Wakeboarder.Commie Joined: 12 Jan 2003 Posts: 1176

I'm on the last step of finishing my fully automatic rear ballast system for my Mobius. All that is left is the scary part, drilling the hole for the thru hull fitting. Does anybody have any experience with this or have any tips for me? I know I need to drill a 1 1/16" hole for my fitting. How do I need to drill the hole in the fiberglass? Should I be concerned about paint chipping? Any information would be appreciated. Thanks.

When everything is done, i will be sure to take some digital photos of the ballast system and do a write up on the project and send it to Pat to post. I believe this will help a lot of people and answer many questions regarding ballast systems for a direct drive.

Todd Armstrong · Addict Joined: 04 Feb 2003 Posts: 758 City: Battle Ground

why don't you retro fit the bilge drain hole insteed of drilling

Jon · Wakeboarder.Commie Joined: 12 Jan 2003 Posts: 1176

I thought about that option but I would rather do it this way. Thanks for the reply anyways.

Ryan_m · Addict Joined: 12 Jan 2003 Posts: 653 City: glen ellyn

I would drill a smaller pilot hole first, and then go with the bigger right size bit. The pilot hole will work well as a guide. Also to prevent chipping i would go slow, and maybe tape the area that i will be drilling. I have read somewere also, you are suppose to run your drill in reverse or something like that at first to help prevent chiping. Good luck. Just rember go slow dont rush it and measure twice.

skicrave · Criminal Joined: 12 Jan 2003 Posts: 76 City: Portland

You can follow the instructions outlined for installing the paddle wheel in this article. The process will be exactly the same with a different sized hole saw.

jim Bogden · Outlaw Joined: 12 Jan 2003 Posts: 178 City: Sandy, UT

drill the pilot hole from inside out, then go underneath and drill the hole. I didnt have any chipping but even if you do have a little, the scoop will cover it and the marine sealant will keep it from growing i would think.

Jon · Wakeboarder.Commie Joined: 12 Jan 2003 Posts: 1176

The hole will be on the side of the boat, not the bottom. Sorry if I wasn't clear. It will be right next to where the stock ballast drain hole already is.