Plastic Classic Forum

OK, I've cut this large hole in the transom so that the tiller can fit into the rudder stock. Now I'm wondering how to "finish" the f/g edges. The easiest way would be to use some flexible vinyl or nylon channel. All I need is approx 38 inches. Unfortunately, Worst Marine only sell in 25 ft lengths.
As there is lots of teak on this boat, I've considered teak channel trim but this would require that I would need to make it. The biggest challenge in doing so would be making the radiused corners. Any other thoughts out there?

I'll put up some pics to show what I'm dealing with.

Do a little research on template routing. You can make a template from that hole, using a piece of tempered hardboard (e.g., Masonite) and use a bearing-guided router bit with template routing collars to make pieces that will match it perfectly, then epoxy them in.

How about just rounding the fiberglass edges, fairing them, and finishing as you do the rest of the boat? If there is going to be a lot of abrasion that probably wouldn't work very well, but I don't know if there will be. You could also make the edges a little "fatter" in the process so there was less of a "point" for wear.

I would dislike the "trim lok" type edging, as it looks "cheap" to me, gets dirt on and around it, and typically the metal inside (that makes it clamp) is not stainless.

Thanks for that info Rachel, I was wondering about that Trimlok material, and you've confirmed my suspicions about it not being s.s.

Your idea about 'rounding' it off is an option I had not considered, but I'm going to investigate making teak trim first. There is a slight space between the deck assy and the outer hull assembly. I shall have to seal that off with epoxy or something.

Anyway, I'm open to all possibilities.

ILikeRust wrote:Do a little research on template routing. You can make a template from that hole, using a piece of tempered hardboard (e.g., Masonite) and use a bearing-guided router bit with template routing collars to make pieces that will match it perfectly, then epoxy them in.

I tried your suggestion Bill but got no response from anyone on the Router forum.
I wanted to use teak trim because I'm happier making sawdust than messing about with chemicals however, I do believe I will now use Rachel's suggestion because of its simplicity.
I wonder if one can purchase small quantities of gel-coat?

Thanks for the links Northstar. Looks exactly what I shall need to do this small job.