Bridle wire bolt tightness oh Hobie16

Putting the boats together this spring has brought about the debate on how tight the bolts for the bridle wire should be on a 16. One of he holes in my bow is starting to oval a little, and am inclined to make super tight. Some say it should be loose. Thoughts?

Snug. Not tight.

The bolt will wedge in place under load.

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

Understood, but should the bow tang be so tight it doesn't rotate at all, or just loose enough to move a little? One of the holes is beginning to oval a little, and am wondering if I've been under tightening it. I have an 05 hobie 16 btw. thanks.

Snug but able to move a little is good. If it's easily loosening during normal use, perhaps the nylock is worn and needs replacement? If the hole is significantly wallowed out, I'd fill it with epoxy/filler and redrill.

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Jerome Vaughan
Hobie 16