Ok,

Does anyone know how to replace the front inboard nut that is
inside the crossbar on a Hobie 18 (1985). This nut is what the bolt that attaches the crossbar to the hull screws into.
right next to the hole there are two rivets, which obviously hold this nut in place, but how do I replace the nut?? Do I have to remove the right front corner casting on the crossbar?, and if so, how do I take that off? I don't see any rivets or bolts holding that in.

Any wisdom would be greatly appreciated

If you are talking about the one on the outside of the hull, not the side closer to the middle of the boat but the one on the outward side of the boat, then here you go. On the end of the top of the crossbar there is a rectangular shaped access cover that measures approximately one inch square. It is pressed on and can be popped off with a screwdriver blade. Once lifted, you should find an allen bolt that goes through the crossbar and through the hull lip, into the nut on the bottom side of the lip.

I'm doing this from memory and it has been several years, so I could be less than accurate in my description.

GARY

No Gary, I'm talking about is the inboard one or the one on the side closest to the middle of the boat. I lost about 1/2" of threading when I removed the bolt and have to replace the nut that is inside the crossbar. They have the part listed in the Hobie catalog (part #61020001), I just don't know how the heck to get into the crossbar to replace it!

Thanks anyway