I have searched the archives and cannot get a definative answer. Which is better (stronger -more leak resistant) a leash plug (plastic w/ metal bar) or drilling a hole thru the stringer and finbox method. I like the finbox method but it seems like drilling thru the stringer would weaken the integity of the tail? Also for a plastic leash plug that is 1-1/4" on the bottom what size hole saw is best. And finally when installing plastic leash plug do you lay glass as you do with a fin box if so how many layers? Thanks, Damon
“Which is better (stronger -more leak resistant) a leash plug (plastic w/ metal bar) or drilling a hole thru the stringer and finbox method.” I’ve never had a box rip through the board. I have had plugs rip out and metal bar crack the plastic. “I like the finbox method but it seems like drilling thru the stringer would weaken the integity of the tail?” The main problem area with a box and stringer is right at the front. That’s what takes the impact if you hit your fin on something. A hole at the back is not a problem if it’s sealed properly. “Also for a plastic leash plug that is 1-1/4” on the bottom what size hole saw is best." Go a little bigger. Or use a 1 1/4" hole saw and wrap some coarse sand paper around your finger and twist inside the hole to open it up. “And finally when installing plastic leash plug do you lay glass as you do with a fin box if so how many layers?” I do. I put glass in the hole and over the top - same as when I do a box. Even one layer is better than no layers.
i make sure i use a good amount of fibers in my resin mix for all plugs and boxes
…you could use a ofishl glueon disk…easy to do,cheap,strong(if not the strongest method),and removable.Herb
What would be the best way to seal the hole after you drilled thuough the finbox?
…resin and milled glass or exo-diaperfiller.Herb
So how you would do this? drill a hole into the fin box, lets say 1/4" wide or so. Put a straw through the hole then fill the hole in around the straw, let the resin kick and pull the straw out? Would that work?
After you router the slot for the box and before you set the box in resin, drill a hole to the deck (1/2" diameter) just before the back of the box. Tape the hole close so your resin doesnot flow out. Use the laminating resin milled fiber mixture to set your boxand fill the hole. After the resin has cured, flip the board over and drill from the deck through to the box. Then use a chamfer tool to break the sharp edge at the deck.