[C320-list] Rebedding Stanchions -- Help

[Warren Updike]

First a tip:  I’m rebedding two stanchions using butyl tape.  The first one
on the port side was not too bad.  I added backing plates (there were none,)
and harder washers after first drilling out the hole, filling with epoxy,
and re-drilling the hole.  Here’s the tip
 I used a dab of butyl tape on the
back of the backing plate, and each washer.  I pressed the washers together
and onto the backing plate.  Then, when I installed the backing plate with
the adhered washers over the bolts, they all stayed in-place giving me time
to get the nuts on.   

 

Now the help I need: the second stanchion on the stbd side is harder to get
at.  It’s not directly viewable and I have to use a mirror to see the bolts.
Have you ever tried to work looking through a mirror?  Not easy.  Still, I
got the big nut on the ½” bolt.  I’ve even got the backing plate and washers
on the smaller bolts; but, for the life of me, I can’t get the nut on.  I
can touch the end of the bolt; but, cannot get enough of my hand in there to
start the nut.  The liner is in the way so it’s not a clear shot in line
with the bolt.  I can use a socket and universal once I get the nut on.
Does anyone have any suggestion on how to get the nut on a bolt I can’t
directly see and can’t get more than two fingers on it at the same time?  

 

Warren & Pattie Updike

1994 C320 #62 "Warr De Mar"