Question about shortening handlepole

[FLY6584]

Well I'm about to shorten my handlepole and I'm trying to decide what to use to reseal the handlepole back into the mount.

I've heard to use Marine Tex, 2 part epoxy, etc.

What has everyone used and how has it held up?

Thanks:biggthumpup:

 

[SJBrit]

I epoxied with some thickener, and put the rivets back in. That didn't hold up too well. Now I just use stainless bolts with some big washers either side - works like a champ, and easy to pull apart if you want to lose a few more inches.

 

[SuperJETT]

J-B Weld for over 5 years now. Be sure to grind down to bare metal inside the bracket and grind off the gelcoat on the middle section so you're bonding the bare materials to each other.

 

[Mark44]

Epoxy with 404 filler and yes clean both pieces well and measure to make sure pole is in square. I also used bolts, 1/4" button heads and nylocks on the inside.

Mark44

 

[SJBrit]

Epoxy with 404 filler and yes clean both pieces well and measure to make sure pole is in square. I also used bolts, 1/4" button heads and nylocks on the inside.

Mark44

I think the bolts are key. Rivets loosen over time and can make the joint vulnerable, whereas bolts done right will stay put. JB Weld sounds good though - never tried that.