Drill my T-165

Advice
#1

I finally took the plunge today, and picked up a new (leftover) WS T165 (kevlar).

I need some advice on the best way to drill a few holes in the topside. I want to mount a compass in the forward pocket, and a U-bole on the rear deck for a security cable.

I have power drills, and a wide selection of bits.

BTW, what’s the model number of the Brunton compass that fits the tempest. Dealer doesn’t carry them, and didn’t know the price which I wanted to know before I asked him to order one.



Thanks,

Frank

#2

T-165 Compass
The Brunton website lists the Model 70P Marine compass with an MSRP of $100.



http://www.brunton.com/catalog.php?item_id=107&subcategory_id=28&category_id=4&old_item_id=107&old_subcategory_id=28&old_category_id=4

#3

Tape
Use masking tape over areas to be drilled. Tape will reduce/prevent gel coat chips and give you a better surface to mark on before drilling. Double or triple it and the bit will have that much less chance of slipping when starting the holes.



For the U-Bolt, be sure you can reach it easily enough from inside to attach properly. Use a backer plate inside to distribute force/load, etc. Other thoughts: The bigger the plate the better? Round the corners - or use an oval plate. (:slight_smile:

#4

Drill my T165
Would I be better off using a brad point bit, or a normal twist bit, starting small, and increasing the diameter?

#5

just drill it
I do dozens of these installs and I just drill 'em with a speedy, sharp bit. over 1/4" start with a smaller bit.



On the Brunton 70 P get #4 X 40 machine screws and neo washers and nylocks replacing the sheet metal screws. they will tear up your gear.



If you can’t find 'em shoot me an e.



steve

#6

btw
congrads on the purchase. good luck with the install



steve

#7

U-bolt
Don’t forget the red LockTite on the nuts!



Jim

#8

All stainless too, of course NM

#9

or use
nylocks. especially made for locking down.



steve

#10

Drilling T165
Thanks for the replies. Always helpful as usual.

There is a West Marine store that has a good stock of stainless fasteners. I always use stainless-capnuts and loctite are part of the package.



Thanks,

Frank

#11

Search around and save
I’ve never paid more than $75 for a 70P. There are deals to be had on the 'net if you shop around.

#12

Good luck getting the nuts off…
…if you ever need to remove the compass. Loctite #271 (red) is meant to be permanent and requires heat to break the bond. You’re better off with either Loctite #242 (blue) or #222 (pink/purple). Both of these will prevent the nuts from vibrating loose, but will allow disassembly, if necessary.

#13

I think the loctite was for u bolt NM

#14

tape both sides
the drill bit usually chips the side it exits

#15

OK to drill Perception Airalite?
I assume it will be fine, but while we’re on the subject, I’d better ask. Has anyone drilled Airalite material, and does it need a larger backing plate when attaching a U-bolt?



Just picked up a Sonoma 13.5 for calm-water paddling, and need to add some place to thread a security cable.