Backing plates

[Kiffa]

Hi, I have removed the wooden with glass over backing plates for my rudders and through hull fitings. Can I put them back with solid fibreglass plates of do I need to go with wood then glass them in place/ Thanks,

Chris

[R Cahoon]

I have used 3/4 inch starboard for backing plates, no rot or compression, does not crack and will conform to minor radious'.

Keep Smilin

[Mikey]

Chris,
Just did mine in fiberglass. Also the same for the shelf above. HArder work but neat installation. With all the stress and the possible water infiltration I like the glass.
Mikey

[Kiffa]

Great thanks,

I actually have allot of thick Fiberglas boards that wont be hard to cut to shape. The only reason I asked this question was because I was told that on the rudders the wood helps absorb shock??
I will be putting up pics of my restoration on my Bahia Mar right now it is a bare shell but because of all the info on this site I think I am prepared for the mountain of a task!

Chris