Apples to Oranges
Aluminum is nothing like fiberglass . Fiberglass is a multi-layered material that ’ s easily drilled , holds hardware well and prevents vibration . Aluminum is the opposite . once holes have been drilled into aluminum and hardware installed , the holes can easily become “ bored out ,” resulting in loose , rattling hardware and insecure mounts . to safeguard against problems , everything mounted to an aluminum boat should be secured with stainless bolts and matching locknuts and washers . some manufacturers now offer reinforced decking beneath trolling motor mounts for more secure fastening , but you should still include multiple large fender washers and nylon locknuts when mounting equipment . be sure not to tighten bolts too quickly with screw guns , as the nylon in the locknuts can melt and bind .
hardware
Mounting Electronics
In addition to the challenges presented by rigging methods , choosing feasible rigging locations for some equipment can also be tricky . Many aluminum boats feature much smaller consoles than today ’ s big glass rigs , so flush-mounting large depth finders isn ’ t an option , and operators must rely on aftermarket mounts such as those from rAM . on my ranger rt178 , I added a rubber-coated metal strap ( the kind often used for securing hoses and pipes ) around my rAM mount ’ s vertical post and secured it to the gunwale console strap
to snug up my console unit . the strap keeps the mount from shifting and potentially wearing out the mounting holes in the aluminum , and the rubber provides a little cushion and shock absorption .
Transom Challenges
Another major difference between aluminum and glass is immediately evident when comparing transoms .
Hardware must be situated between the knee braces on the transom .
Aluminum boats require manufacturers to install large knee braces stretching from transom to hull . the braces clutter the rear of the boat and make it difficult to mount some accessory equipment . specifically , such braces present mounting challenges for two popular bass boat accessories : on-board chargers and shallow-water anchors .
This charger is mounted to a metal plate stretched across the knee braces .
traditionally , chargers are mounted behind the batteries in a rear mechanical compartment . In some cases , aluminum boat manufacturers add a flat plate across transom braces to allow for this , as in the case of my rt178 . however , as anglers try to include as many batteries as possible in limited space , sometimes the charger must be moved . Cox , affectionately known as “ tin Man ” on tour for his six-figure wins out of aluminum rigs , accomplishes this by placing his Minn Kota MK460 charger in an overhead tray in the rear compartment of his Crestliner pt 20 . numerous considerations must be made prior to mounting shallowwater anchors on aluminum boats . some aluminum manufacturers don ’ t allow the option on their rigs , and void warranties if consumers add the equipment themselves , so be sure to start with a clear discussion on the subject with your boat dealer .
FEBRUARY-MARCH 2017 I FLWFISHING . COM 41