Handle replacement with no hull access

Hey all,

I tried to find this topic but my search did not turn up anything relevant (search terms were hard to figure out).

I have a kayak that had rotten handles on the center of the kayak. I drilled out the rivets that kept them in place and they all came out pretty easy except for one pair that ended up making a bigger hole.

What are my options for installing the handles without hull access and the hole is ~5/8th in.
Ive seen well nuts, but dont think they go that small and my rivet gun only goes to 3/8.
Can I get a coarse thread bolt in there or something similar to a drywall anchor?

I can grab pics tomorrow if it will help

Is it in a spot that you can add a small hatch nearby? Then you can add storage and an access point at the same time.  Otherwise, well nuts or rivets are probably your best bet. I'd probably use some silicon adhesive sealant around the edges too - a little surface adhesion can go a long ways to help stuff in place.

Is it in a spot that you can add a small hatch nearby? Then you can add storage and an access point at the same time.  Otherwise, well nuts or rivets are probably your best bet. I'd probably use some silicon adhesive sealant around the edges too - a little surface adhesion can go a long ways to help stuff in place.

It is near the center of the kayak and I think there is space for a circular hull access cover.  May be worth the install

Went out and checked and I would need to make access at the front end of the kayak where you can install a front hatch cover but I wouldn't be able to reach all the way back in there unless I had a small child to crawl through. Maybe I can teach one of my cats

Maybe I can teach one of my cats

Maybe just send the cat out on the kayak - will probably only need one handle for that anyway.   

On a serious note, if you post photos of your kayak you will surely get much more input.  What's the model anyway?

Fair point. It's a ocean kayak scrambler 11.

This is not mine but it's the same model. The hatch at your seat has a recessed cavity but it's not thru access. I guess I could cut that out, but I like the space since it's protected.

There are lots of videos on how to install items with out access. I have installed several backing plates, and a rudder system using string, wire, or magnets depending on the situation. Here is one video of many:

There are lots of videos on how to install items with out access. I have installed several backing plates, and a rudder system using string, wire, or magnets depending on the situation. Here is one video of many:

The only hull access is the drain plug all the way in the front. I may be able to run a line and throw a washer or something through it but that middle hatch in that video makes it a lot easier.


Maybe I can throw a nut in there and run some wire and magnets and make it work. We'll see

I have the Scrambler XT - great boat.

It came with the front hatch - "Gaspachi Hatch".  I've never had a problem with it coming off or leaking.

Caught my 38 pounder from the Scrambler XT back in 2006.