Attachments to polyethylene

[domlee]

I wish to attach a wooden strake to the gunnel of a Pioner low density polyethylene boat. I then wish to attach stainless a steel steel pulpit, puspit and handrails to the wooden strake. Could anyone suggest the best way to attach the wood to the boat regarding adhesives and fixings?

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[snowleopard]

polythene is a very effective mould release agent, almost nothing sticks to it. polyester and epoxy certainly won't though you might be in with a chance with sikaflex. if you are set on attaching gunwales to it your best bet would probably be to put a thin strip either side and through-bolt with long m5 bolts.

might be best to ask the importers (caley marine) what they recommend.

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[domlee]

Never thought of Caley, will give them a bell. I was thinking of bolting the wood on using a 'cavity wall' type fitting to clamp the wood to the boat e.g. a bolt, washer, butterfly spring type of thing - with some form or adhesive as form of reinforcement. I was also thinking of rivits / self tappers but something tells me this is not the way to go with this type of material.

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[richardandtracy]

Not even Sikaflex will work.
If you can get to both sides, put a doubler on the far side of the polythene & screw through to the doubler. Alternatively use large washers. Self tappers work, but not for long!

Regards

Richard.


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