I am restoring a neglected H-16 and have run into two problems.

There are two sets of holes for the jib tracks in my front cross bar. I have removed the jib track and want to fill one set of holes and paint the cross bar and then replace the jib tracks using the seccond set of holes which are in good condition. Has anyone used an aluminum epoxy to do fill holes before? I am considering filling both sets and drilling new ones, but am not sure how strong the epoxy is.

Also, I have my frame apart and notice the the height of my pylons are not consistent. Measured from the mid-point of the bolt hole to the fiberglass they measure anywhere from 3.25 inches to 4.25 inches. The front starbird pylon looks like it has sunk some and is loose. Where do I start on this repair? What is the standard height for pylons?

Thanks

I've not used aluminium epoxy before, but all the times that I've epoxied holes before and redrilled them, the epoxy has always been plenty strong enough.

What concerns me is the loose pylon.

A picture of how the pylon sits can be seen here.

http://www.thebeachcats.com/modules...mp;file=index&include=view_album.php

If the pylon is loose then I'd be quite concerned that the epoxy holding it together has come loose inside. You really don't want a loose pylon inside the hull as it will probably be making a point load somewhere on the hull which could well damage the hull. As regards the pylon height, you may need to fill the existing holes with epoxy and re-drill the holes to suit, as long as the top of the pylon has not been cut, the corner casings should fit into them all the way and that should give you the correct frame height.

I'd be more concerned with the Loose front Pylon. The installation of front Deck Ports would give visual and physical access to the pylons. The position and size of the ports are described in some old 'On the Wire' articles, still available on the previously mentioned web site.
http://www.thebeachcats.com

good luck..