Rivet Size for hull to cap or should I use bolts???
 

What size rivets and washers do I need for 18 SF...securing cap to hull..I think it is over a 1" bite??!!!
or should I go with phillips head machine screws and nylon lock nuts backed with washers???
All help appreciated...
-Fred

All I know is on the 21 they used aluminum rivets and then taped the cap to the sides. The size is like a 10/24 bolt. You should only have enough of the rivet sticking thru the combined material and washer to get a mushroom when you pull it. Anything more than that is actually a determent.

I think the reason they use rivets rather than bolts is a two fold. First faster and second it has a consistent pressure on each one applied.

Hope this helps. Check out http://www.mcmaster.com for a huge selection of rivets.

I thru-bolted mine ~ 6-8" with 10-32/fender washers inside and 5200. I hope I never have to take it apart. It tightened things up tremendously too!

I thru bolted too. With nylons... No problem...

I thru bolted then riveted then glassed mine....Just kidding :) You may find it necessary to bolt the cap in places to bring the cap and hull join space together so you can then get a rivet in there. On the last couple boats I have done it that way...put a bolt every 2 feet or so then when it's snug put in rivets all the way around. The bolts you can leave in or take out later.

strick