how to cut holes in fiberglass

[Dave O]

I've got a SeaRay 185 sport and want to cut holes for fishing rod holders-it has none. Whats the best way to do it ? do they sell hole saws for fiberglass and where to buy? Any risk in weakening boat structure with a few cuts? Thanks guys.

[BigAl13]

A regular wood hole saw will work fine. Just make sure hat if there is wood between the fiber sheets to seal the exposed egdges of the ply wood with 5200

[Hotrod]

I recall when I did mine in my other boat, They were not exactly round. so I had to use the hole saw, then oval out the hole with a jig saw.

[Hunter 2]

I recall when I did mine in my other boat, They were not exactly round. so I had to use the hole saw, then oval out the hole with a jig saw.

       The holes are a bit egg shaped for the 30 Deg angled rod holders.  I like using backing plates too.

[Salty Dog]

  Backing plates are as much part of it as anything else .

[fluke - u]

I recall when I did mine in my other boat, They were not exactly round. so I had to use the hole saw, then oval out the hole with a jig saw.

...I also used silicone sealer around the hole top and bottom.....

       The holes are a bit egg shaped for the 30 Deg angled rod holders.  I like using backing plates too.

[IrishAyes]

I believe the holes for the 30 degree holders are drilled at an angle giving the appearance they are oval.

[njbob49]

I have never done it, but this video will give you some idea how it could be done.  There are also links to other videos on that page

rod holder install

Tight Lines,
Bob G   

[IrishAyes]

Good video except I would definitely go with thru bolts and backing plate and not screws.

[Hotrod]

I believe the holes for the 30 degree holders are drilled at an angle giving the appearance they are oval.

You are right Joe.  But In fact.. drilling at a 30 Deg angle will make them oval..  but the problem is having a long enough set bit in the hole saw to reach the work area prior to drilling

[Reel Time]

 When I added mine, I drilled with a hole saw straight down at  90 degree's all the way through, then I just held the drill at an angle and drilled out the backside of the first hole. No jigsaw, or handsaw required. Maybe just a wee bit of a rasp to fine tune the clearance needed for the tube.

 Making the first hole straight down, the sides of that hole will hold the hole saw in place for a smooth angle down the back side of it, just take your time, don't rush it.

 Try on a scrap piece of wood to get the feel for it, and you"ll see what I'm talking about.

[Hotrod]

   that's the ticket right there

[Maritime Matt]

I see many installs of rod holders and as long as there is a thick wood core and substantial glass thickness, through bolting is not needed. On many applications, there is no access to the underside of the gunnel for hardware and tools and self-tapping is the only way to fasten it. Put some 2" masking tape down on the area and beyond it some before you drill. It keeps the gel coat from chipping. That includes the screw mounting holes. A good sealant on the bolt threads works well. We use Boat Life and 3m products. The best way to seal the wood core after drilling is with epoxy resin. If through bolting, fender washers  are the norm for these installs.  I've never seen backing plates on individual flush mount rod holders.
Matt