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Just purchased a 2008 Montauk 190. It came with a full set of Bow Cushions, but were apparently never used or installed by former owner since the boat had a fishing package for trolling motor in the front. Neither the boat or cushions have snaps installed for the Bow Cushions.
I have also ordered rear seat cushions from my closest dealer and they are being shipped from Boston Whaler. I have snaps on the live well - but none on rear seats adjacent to the motor since Boston Whaler told dealer that the seats for the newer models can be used on the 2008 even though that was not an original factory option.
What is the best way to install the Stainless Snaps? Is this a DIY project or should I have the dealer do it? Advice greatly appreciated.
Paper, pen
Corded or cordless drill
painter's tape
drill bits
screw driver
marine sealant (Boat Life, 3M, West Marine etc)
Use a sheet of paper to make a template of the snap locations on the back of the cushion.
Dry fit the cushion on the transom and mark location. Place template on transom in the location marked. Double check both cushion templates.
Make a template for each cushion, the snaps may be slightly different.
With a scrap of wood, determine best size drill bit for snap screw. The screw should go in tight, but not too tight (or loose)
Use painters tape to cover the areas under the template for drilling.
Drill hole 2/3 length of the screw.
Use a chamfer bit or slightly larger bit and slightly enlarge the very top of hole (reduces cracking gelcoat).The hole should look like a Y.
Remove tape.
Dab the shank of the screw with sealant and fasten.
I agree completely with Phil for installing the snaps on the boat or fiberglass side of the snap installation. However, if I read your post right, there are also no snaps on the cushion side either, correct? If this is the case, you will have a difficult time getting the snaps to line up nice, tight, and wrinkle free on the cushion side just using a template. The canvas makers use a snap that fits into the fiberglass side like a regular canvas snap that also has a needle sticking out of it. Then once you install the cushion, you are able to position the material over the needle and press it thru the material, leaving a perfectly centered, "pilot hole" hole to be used for your snap installation. You will need a couple of these. I bought mine at sailrite.com, and have used them on a multiple projects with professional results.
