Q: What Size Hole Saw Should I Use?
A: We recommend using a 2-1/4" diameter hole saw.
Q: What Size Drill Should I Use For The Mounting Bolts?
A: We recommend using a 3/8" diameter drill.
Q: Do L.T. Marine Rod Holders Come With A Backing Plate?
A: Yes, we supply a 316 stainless steel backing plate measuring 4" x 5" with 316 stainless steel 2-1/2" long 5/16-18 bolts, nuts, and lock washers.
Q: Do you have a hole drilling template to mark the hole locations for installation?
A: Yes we do. Click here for a PDF copy you can print out. Make sure your printer settings are set to print at 100% of file size in order to ensure scale is correct!
Tips to help you with your installation
- When installing the rod holders it is advisable to use 3M 4000 Sealant. Apply liberally underneath the top plate and underneath the heads of the bolts to seal everything. Preventing water intrusion into the coring material of the gunwale is imperative.
- De-Coring the hole surrounding the rod holder tube is advisable as well. On some boats covering board coring material can be made of wood like Balsa Wood, or foam, or Coosa. When exposed to moister these materials can absorb water and weaken the covering boards if the fiberglass laminate schedule is not thick enough. To de-core the hole you can place the long shank end of an allen wrench into the chuck of a cordless drill and use the short end of the wrench like a router and knock out the coring material around the hole. After de-coring is complete it is advisable to seal the hole up with some hull and deck putty to prevent water intrusion.
- Each L.T. Marine rod holder is supplied with rod & reel safety leash bracket. While most brands integrate this into the backing plate we decided to make it adaptable to any position underneath the covering board. You simply install it to any of the 4 mounting bolts between the backing plate and the lock washer.
- Caring for your rod holders is simple. Rinse them down with fresh water and boat soap after each trip. To keep the finish bright and shiny it is advisable to apply boat wax to them once or twice a season.
- To set the drag of the swivel mechanism all you need is a 5/8" socket or wrench. Place your rod into the rod holder. Have someone hold the rod while you tighten the swivel nut on the underside of the rod holder. Our drag washers are made from a material that is perfectly suited for friction applications but over time re-tightening will be necessary.
