Cleats- backing plate or not

[Shakes_26]

I recently ordered 4x Gemlux 6" pull up cutting edge cleats to replace the original cleats on my 21B.

I asked about backing plates, they no longer offer them. Just the 2x one inch washers per cleat. I'm not towing barges or trawling so, whats the group think here, ok without backing plates?

I don't believe the original cleats had them either that I can tell.

[Kings Pointer]

If my gunnels were rock solid, Id go for it, except at the center bow lifting cleat. However, I made my own backers, just as I did for my rod holders.

[Sailor]

I agree if your core is good, then washers are fine.

[Noname Dave]

I would back them up with additional fender washers.

[snappergapper]

I backed with scrap 1/2" Starboard. Just spreads the force out on a larger area.

[Justin]

Backing plates are always a good idea.

[Shakes_26]

I consulted with a ME friend, he agreed washers are fine, that 95% of the load would be born by the top skin of fiberglass anyway and that 1" dia washers would be more than adequate unless the core was bad.

thanks for providing a sounding board.

[LoveMyMako]

Yes, two fender washers per bolt is more than enough.

[TPG]

quote:

---

Originally posted by Shakes_26


I consulted with a ME friend, he agreed washers are fine, that 95% of the load would be born by the top skin of fiberglass anyway and that 1" dia washers would be more than adequate unless the core was bad.

thanks for providing a sounding board.

---

Cleats are being levered. So its the top facing skin and the underside far side backing plate/washers.

[Rowch01]

Im running a .250" stainless strip under each of mine. Piece of mind makes me feel good.