You should have the vapor less rivets with the ladder for the install. Those are steel core and we are trying to switch everything to stainless steel now. That is if we can get enough as it’s a custom build in a challenging supply chain season.
Machine screws and nylon nuts on the deck install, rivets and silicone covering the lower portion.
On a 1998 model you may see some moisture seepage when you drill lower. Just let’s it dry and seal the holes. It’s going to be hard to say what the source is on a 22 year old boat.
BCB
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