Mounting hardware

I was just about ready to mount my two Scotty rod holder mounts on my OK Big Game Prowler when I realized there was no mounting hardware in the packages.  I have a flush mount and the regular mount that I want to put on.  First, I'm wondering if I should have received hardware (i.e. bolts/nuts or screws) with them?

Either way what type of metal should I be using when I go to buy the stuff to mount them?  Stainless or aluminum is my first thoughts.  I noticed Scotty rod mounting hardware for sale on kayak fishing site but I don't think I need to pay shipping for something I can likely find at my local hardware store.

Your thoughts as always are appreciated.

I don't recall mounting hardware coming with the Scotty rodholders. 

Stainless steel is what I use.  With large oversized washers for backing and locking nuts.  And might as well put a dab of Marine Goop in while you're installing them.

-Allen

Yep! What Polepole said.

 I don't think they come with hardware. I usually use stainless flat head screws and nyloc nuts, but a lot of folk recommend extra long 3/16 aluminum blind rivets. Home Despot has them.

The advantage of rivets are you can use them blind and its a lot quicker to install. Disadvantage is that they are generally weaker and have to be drilled out to remove. Backing them with a washer brings the strength way up (spreads the load), but if you can put on a washer then you could have used a screw, washer and nut instead.

An advantage of using a screw (in addition to being waaay stronger) is that you can drill the pilot hole just undersized and screw into the plastic for a better seal, then back that up with a washer and nyloc nut. I would not use the hull as the only fastener though. The other advantage is that they are removable.

Finally, you can use a sealant with your fasteners. Goop works great a sealant and is a much less permanent stickum than 3m 4200 or Lexel

I've seen folks use blind rivet nuts and those look good, but I have not used them.