removing grab rails

jail

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Is there any way to remove the grab rails from the bow of a 2006 tournament 225? There is rust where they contact the hull. I can get it clean with much effort, but it comes back. The fasteners must be rusted behind.
 

DennisG01

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Not familiar with your bow setup, but if you can post a few pictures of the area that would help. Doesn't have to be your particular boat - it could be pictures of a 225 from somewhere on the internet - just as long as it's the same setup as yours.
 

jail

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I am trying to post a picture
 

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DennisG01

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OK, so this is what I would "expect" has to happen. The backrest needs to come out and then, possibly, access holes would need to be cut - but they'll be hidden by the cushion once it's back on. To get the cushion off, look under the bottom side of the cushion for a few screws. Once those are out, the cushion should slide upwards and off. It's possible there are no securing screws.

However, you might get lucky with the right extensions on a socket and be able to reach the nuts on the grabrail by going through the storage locker under the seat. There may or may not be enough room - but you can check.

Most likely there's rusting because of the lack of air to that small space between the grabrail and the deck. Use a little butyl rubber tape or sealant when reinstalling and that should take care of it in the future.
 

jail

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Thanks for the response. I was afraid I would have to drill some holes behind the bolsters. There is not access from the locker below.Has anyone done this?
 

DennisG01

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I don't know if Grady started using Christmas tree fasteners there or not, but you can try looking for that method, too. Whatever way it is, if you're handy you'll be able to figure it out pretty easily with the ideas mentioned.
 

Fishtales

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I'd contact GW and wouldn't cut any holes unless you are going to glass the area when done. Rust is one thing, holes seem a bit more serious from where I sit.
 

Ky Grady

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What's the chances of access holes already being there behind the bolster?
 

jail

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I have been told there are no holes under the bolster. I will check it out in April when the shrink wrap comes off.
If I do drill the holes I was thinking I would then get small removable hatch covers for future access and waterproofing.
 

jail

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Ok, so there is no access behind the bolsters. I cleaned up the rust pretty good. Used FSR.
If it comes back bad, next year I will drill holes for access behind the bolsters and install removable sealed covers.
 

Fishtales

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It's a two piece boat that is joined at the liner/hull meeting point at the rub rail. It's a lot of holes to cut but can be done. Beckson Marine makes pop-in or screw-in inspection ports in GW color that seal well if you do. Be careful and look for wires.