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Q1: What is the best method to restore chalky Z legs?

Heat doesn't seem to work.

I have enough paint to paint the Z-legs

Q2: will Penetrol restore chalky Z-legs?

Q3. what material should I use [to create a floor inside] the center console [on a 1976 MONTAUK 17]?

Q4: for the center console [on a 1976 MONTAUK 17] with a wood base, which method of securing [the center console to the cockpit deck] is best?

I have seen snaptoggles used [to secure a center console to the cockpit deck]. The snaptoggles have a metal insert below [the deck].

Photos in order of questions: https://imgur.com/a/A11wNzI

The cockpit deck is dry, but I don't have confidence in the deck to hold screws well.

JackC wrote: Q3. what material should I use [to create a floor inside] the center console [on a 1976 MONTAUK 17]?

Use marine plywood sealed with WEST System epoxy resin.

JackC wrote: Q4: for the center console [on a 1976 MONTAUK 17] with a wood base, which method of securing [the center console to the cockpit deck] is best?

The factory method is the best method. An aluminum L-extrusion is through-bolted to the fiberglass laminate of the console. Self-tapping stainless steel No. 8 or No. 10 fasteners hold the L-Extrusion to the deck through holes in the aluminum with a countersunk opening. The fasteners thread into wood reinforcement built into the deck structure. If the aluminum extrusion is mounted on the outboard side of the console, it can later be concealed with a varnished teak trim piece.


Fig. 1. An elevated center console. Note how the original aluminum L-Extrusion is dressed up and concealed by a varnished teak trim piece.

Q1: What is the best method to restore chalky Z legs? I have enough paint to paint the Z-legs

Sand with fine grit, wipe with acetone. Apply several thin coats of a Krylon paint for plastic.

Q2: will Penetrol restore chalky Z-legs

For a season, reapplication each year is needed.

I clean Z-legs with a pressure washer. This method works well. No paint or sanding is required.

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