16
1 : b) Trace the Centre of the Mounting Tube Hole
Transferring various measures to points on the transom, inside or out, is much
easier when the boat's waterline is level, both fore-and-aft and athwartships. In this
case, a line can be strung above the rail, made perfectly level and parallel to the keel,
and used as a baseline. In most cases, this line will pass over an opening in the
lazarette and allow to transfer measures inside it with a plumb line.
Make good use of the level and the square. If the yacht is stable, also use the
plumb line (it is easy to improvise one); use it in particular to materialise both ends of
the mounting tube and to determine the position of the quadrant..
Use your eyes a lot, and trust them. If it looks off, it most probably is and
conversely, if it looks right, it most probably is.
Carefully mark the centre of the hole on the transom or hull, both inside and out.
When this is done, do not grab the drill yet. Repeat each step of the whole
measuring operation, to double-check. Remember this is the most critical part
of the installation process and has to be done with greatest care.
If you arrive at the same results twice, you can go ahead with a clear
conscience and drill the centre guiding hole.
2 : Drill the Hole and Fasten the Mounting Tube
2 : a) Drill the Hole
Drill a hole 1/8 in. (3 mm) or
smaller first. If you are satisfied with
its position, drill 1/4 in. If not. Drill an
other smaller hole in the right position.
Drilling a small hole first makes
changing its position easier. Do not
worry about drilling more than one
hole, as this section of the transom
will be removed when you drill the
large hole.
Cutting the Mounting Tube hole
through the transom is easier than it
appears, with a good quality hole
saw :
2
1/2 in. (63 mm) for
Jean-du-
Sud
3 1/2 in. (89 mm)
Spray
