Hey guys.

 

Just purchased a budget kayak (Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100), and want to make some mods. In particular, I'd like to place a few gear tracks/rails on the side. Is there a certain screw or installation method I should use to ensure no leaks occur down the road?

I assume you are mounting above the water line.  Can you get to the inside of the hull?  If not, then you need to use wellnuts.  They are self sealing.  There are also self sealing pop rivets.  If you're mounting above the water line with a screw/washer/nut, then sealing the mounting hardware with silicone should do. 

14 minutes ago, J Francho said:

I assume you are mounting above the water line.  Can you get to the inside of the hull?  If not, then you need to use wellnuts.  They are self sealing.  There are also self sealing pop rivets.  If you're mounting above the water line with a screw/washer/nut, then sealing the mounting hardware with silicone should do. 

Yes. I'll be mounting above the water line.

Like Francho said, well nuts or rivets.  Even with those I put a dab of marine sealant in the hole first. 

 

i usually use rivets for mounting with some waterproof silicone and haven't had any issues.  Only downside is removal isn't as easy as the well nuts but I am ok with that trade off.

 

Screw nut and washer if I have access and rivets if no access.