Monday 13 July 2020

Rail-mount rod holder hack

When the main refit was done in 2013 I installed a series of Railblaza rail sockets around the cockpit rail so I could mount a bait cutting board and rod holders wherever I wanted them. Although they are supplied with gripper tape, I never got them fixed securely enough to stop rotating under load (the load being a large fish running off with the bait!) I was advised to put a piece of rubber inner tube under the mount which I did. However, a combination of time-weakened plastic, the additional layer of material and my brute strength(!) the lower part of the clamp sheared at the thinnest point.

This needed strengthening. I bought a metre of 20mmx3mm 316 stainless (mill finish) and made 10 plates to fit under the 10 clamps. I also bought some longer bolts to accommodate the plate and nut, which is now exposed. By chance, the supplier only had Allen key bolts and I think they look rather good. Memo to self, next time I do this I'll polish the strip before cutting it up - I'll have something to hold! Job done eventually, and so far, no twisting. So far no big fish either, but I live in hope (on both counts).