Wow, you guys are inventive! Larry, I've looked on the Wilderness Systems website and in my WS catalog (yes, I have one from before I "got religion") and can't quite make out the detail on the bow and stern of the Arctic Hawk. Maybe I'll have to go back to the local store again... Thanks for the lead.

Dean, do wood screws hold as well in epoxy as in wood? I shudder to think of trying to place plywood blocks clear out near the bow and stern stems, given the struggle which accompanied getting epoxy into the junction of deck and hull with the pole and syringe. Perhaps it'd be easier, though, with the kayak turned upside down and sort of worn like a helmet during the insertion.

Ross, I'd never have thought of your approach. Have you done it, and actually been able to hold the washer and nut up tight enough against the surface with a piece of string to tighten the screw without turning the nut? My wiry little six-year-old would probably be willing to crawl up in there with a wrench, but I'm not sure that even he could reach. Mike