How do I plug a 1/4" hole in my mast?

I drilled and then tapped a 1/4" hole about 6' up the mast. I didn't do something right, I guess, because the bolt I put in there is acting as if the threads are stripped.

Anyhow, I need to plug that hole. Suggest some options.

The mast in rather thin metal so a 1/4-20 or even a 1/4-28 tread would only have part of a thread or two.

I would recommend Devcon Aluminum Putty (F) 10610. This stuff is great.

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Bill 404 21SE

Thanks for the thoughts on what went wrong. Makes sense.

I'll checkout the putty.

If the metal is too thin for threads you could use an appropriate diameter sheet metal screw in place of the 1/4 20 screw, either to do what you were going to do with the 1/4 20 screw or to plug the hole.

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Dave

Here's what I was trying to do:

Once you patch or plug that hole... Your goal is to mount your camera to the mast so...

You could fabricate a pair of stand offs that could rivet to the mast than just bolt your camera setup to it. Be sure to use rivet casings! A standoff is formed like a "U" that is flat at the base and has "ears" that would than simply rivet to the mast to match the curvature of the mast. The height of the "U" would be determined by the length of the bolt plus the thickness of your nut so you can fit it in there with a wrench. Two closed end stainless steel rivets per side into the ears will keep it straight.

I wish I could draw you a picture with my keyboard to give you a better visual. _l-l_ Kind of like that with the center raised...

If you tell me length of you bolt I can fabricate the standoffs for you if your patience as I rarely get to my shop ....Poynter Sheet Metal, Bloomington, Indiana

We have a first class operation and we can build about anything out of metal.....

Check with your local sheet metal shop and tell them you need a pair of standoff.

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Bill 404 21SE

How about a 1/4 inch pop rivet

With all due respect, I would be hesitant to mount a camera onto the mast.

I happened to be sitting with my back against the mast this weekend (while my son drove), and the thing was twisting and turning all the time. Usually I drive, and I never realized how much it moves. It's constantly in motion, and I would think that mounting a camera to the mast is going to result in some very shaky video.

As well, if you point it forward, I would imagine that half of the field of view would be consumed by the jib. If it you point it rearward, half the view will be consumed by the mainsail, no?