Gudgeon mounting question

Hello,
I had my screws strip out and have retapped the holes to 1/4" successfully (I think). I have a few questions before remounting.

1. What length screw should I use. I bought 1" since that's what I pulled out but when tapping I felt the greatest resistance "deeper" and was concerned I should be using longer screws and that had something to do with them stripping out.

2. There were some washers between the gudgeon and the transom. When I look at the gudgeon still mounted it appears there is more space at the top then bottom, see picture. Is this intentional? Why? Maybe just built up silicone? Do washers help keep the gudgeon from embedding itself in the gel coat?

3. What is the proper sealant? Can I just use regular silicone? Fill each hole before inserting screws?

Thank you much.

Washers were not original equipment. I suspect the transom may be distorted from delamination or internal swelling. Someone may have placed spacers to keep the gudgeon in alignment.

Original screws were 12-24 x 1" and passed clear through the aluminum backing plate. Greater resistance from the tap may have been it bottoming out against the hull surface? Passing into the glass structure behind the plate? Not sure. Put a screw in without the gudgeon in place and thread all the way in to b sure it can hold the gudgeon tightly before binding.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

take a look at the inside traansom pic .. perhaps your bolt is contacting the fiberglass...
http://www.thebeachcats.com/pictures/?g2_itemId=10731

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•Present boat -1998 Hobie 16 Solana Sails furling jib[/size]