Worn Bow Cleats - Replace?

[Rob Hamlin]

The two bow cleats on my 1991 Catalina 36 have worn through the surface stainless to the bronze (?) underneath where the cleat hitch rubs them. I spent hours last weekend polishing my bow pulpit and lifeline stanchions, and now the worn, multi-hued cleats bug me, although I am sure they are still sound. There is no easy access to the fasteners through the anchor locker which would lalow me to replace them. Any advice on replacing or repairing?

[TomSoko]

Rob,
If you cannot access the nuts holding the bow cleats on, why not cut a few holes in the anchor locker near the cleats and install access ports? They would not effect the structural integrity of the anchor locker, and would not be seen unless you open up the anchor locker. Just a thought.

[Peter Taylor]

Rob,
I have been considering the same issue myself. While mine is a newer boat, the cleats take a bit of a beating in my slip and I would like the peace of mind to at least check that they are secure and if possible reinforce them to some extent.
I have been reluctant to cut access ports into the locker as Tom has suggested and which seems the only means of access.
I would be interested if there have been any instances of these cleats failing - in which case I mighrt bring forwrd the planned stenghthening.

[Rob Hamlin]

Thanks Tom - I think I'll do just that. As you suggest I don't believe that the access ports would affect the structural integrity of the locker or (obviously)the hull. I'm always queasy about cutting holes until I get started!

[Rob Hamlin]

Peter - I think I will take Tom's advice and install some access ports. Wish me luck and I'll let you know how it goes! Rob

[mutualfun]

Rob:
I am curious if you take and open you open your anchor locker cover, if you have a round beckman cover on the front side of the anchor locker. I have a 1990 # 1057 and have one. It allows me access to the pulpit nuts, light wires and the nuts to the bow cleats. You have to take and bend your arm and hand once it goes into the 6 inch hole. But being a small person and with a small arm it is not to bad for me to reach.

[Rob Hamlin]

Randy:

I do indeed have that same access port but it may not be in the same position. I can reach only two nuts on one cleat and the other side is completely out of range. I'm actually excited about making the new ports, however. I had a similar experience when faced with drilling holes in my last boat, a Catalina 30 - I was extremely hesitant at first, but once you've made the first cut you feel closer to your boat!

Rob

[Spanki]

I too, cut an access hole(installed beckson port) in my c-30 anchor locker and put backing plates on the bow cleats. I have a beckson port in the anchor locker on our 93' but I can also remove the panels at the bow in the v-berth and access EVERYTHING! It takes u-joint sockets, extensions, mirrors and alot of patience but it can be done!:)

[Rob Hamlin]

Wow. I was all ready to cut holes! It sounds like even with the forepeak access you still needed to cut access ports to back up the cleats? By the way, how did you go about cutting the hole? Draw it, drill a few holes and use a small saws-all? Thanks.

[mutualfun]

Rob:
Something I used to cut a larger then 4 inch hole was a roto zip. They have an attachment that you use and does a very nice job at making large holes.
Randy