Perko® simplifies thru-hull fitting installations

February 3, 2015 9:09 am

Until now, installing a thru-hull fitting has been a two person project: someone outside the hull holding the flange in place, the other inside tightening the nut. With Perko®'s unique design improvement, one individual is all that's needed to get the job done.

Details set Perko®'s thru-hull fittings apart from the competition. A slot in the inboard end allows the installer to hold the flange in place with the shank of a screwdriver, as the nut is tightened. A bedding groove provides room for additional compound and a tighter seal. Models are available with recessed flappers.

Cast in the company's own foundry, the fittings come in a choice of finished or chrome-plated bronze, and white or black polymer. Metal is a long-lasting, low-maintenance material; polymer is less expensive, but not for use below the waterline.

The company uses a multi-step electroplating process on the chromed models for a contemporary look that matches many boats. Plating eliminates the green that develops with plain bronze, something that traditionalists often desire.

Both metal and polymer models are available with barbed ends. Bronze units are offered for piped-in installation and are threaded to 3/8" from the head. Each come in a wide range of hose or pipe sizes, and a choice of flanges, including flat for recessing into the hull.

A series of three Ship Shape TV videos at http://bit.ly/1Bk0bH6 details every aspect of thru-hull fittings from casting and plating, to installation. Bronze models start under $40, polymer versions begin at $5.

For over 100 years, Perko has been a leader in providing the highest quality marine lighting, hardware,, switches and fuel system products. All are engineered to the company's highest standards and are proudly made in the USA.