Seat base R&R

The 7x7" pedestal seat bases on my 03 G-3 are rusting out. I can possibly replace the brass inserts, but some of the SS base screws won't get tight. I assume I could install larger screws to get them to set tight to the deck? The original screws are 2" and I assume screwed into the wood under the the deck so I'm wondering if the larger screws will hold in just the metal of the deck?

This help?



Hillman Group 15-Count #8- 32 x 1/2-in Rubber Standard (SAE) Well Nuts

Don't think so, the holes in the alum. deck are sized to the screws and the pedestal mount flange/base sits flat on the deck. Any insert that protrudes above the deck will hold the base slightly off the deck w/o some gasket the same thickness. No way to access underneath w/o cutting a hole in the boat and the foam that fills all of the space inside the deck and under the seat base. Does somebody make a "spacer" for the base plate to work w an insert fastner to make it all tight when screwed down?

I don't have experience w/ rivets below water line.

Check this thread though:

https://www.tinboats.net/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=38433

I know Barefoot Johnny has posted many times on that subject.

The bow and stern decks on this boat are welded in. The bow one has a storage area where I can possibly access and use nuts/washers under the deck for the base screws. The stern deck is closed off and completely filled w foam. The only access to under the base is the hole in the deck for the pedestal pin that seat base covers when installed.