Tips for assembling your shacks

[Pat_Rodger]

Portable Assembly Tips

While putting together my Clam Pro TC I ran into a couple of steps that I had to redo. I hope that others that have put their shacks together and came across tips for others will join in and post what you found to help others.

Here is what I have for the Clam Pro TC.

Page 4, step 2

Make sure that you have the holes in the front seat mount pointing into the tub.

Page 5, step 4

When attaching item 18 to seat brackets #12 put the whole assembly in its position in the tub than tighten the bolts and nuts.

When unpacking the hoop poles set the porch pole aside so that it is separate from the others. I marked mine so that I was able to put it in the correct spot.

Page 11, step 13

Prior to installing the v molding, soak it in hot water to make it easier to work with. It did not take long to make it flexible and much easier to work with.

I hope these tips help you and make assembling your investment easier

Pat

[Tony Mariotti]

Pat, I appreciate the tip on soaking the v molding in hot water. I know it said that was one way to do it, but I have always used a hair dryer and it takes a long time. I will try soaking the molding in hot water and see if that makes it a breeze!

[Kevan Paul]

I have to say year after year I learn something new and the best thing to do is trick your tub before you add the poles and tent. So I like to add (Lights, power cords, hitch, battery, cargo net, and whatever else I can think of) I hate learning from trial and error. LOL

[Shack]

Yep, a hair dryer also helps when fitting new canvas that seems to be right on and tight around poles and when attaching to the sled.

Also, when drilling into plastic "below the water line" of the sled (I.E. hyfax runners) go a size or two smaller with the drill bit. Hand thread the fastener into the sled and you will have a stationed stud waiting for the washer and securing nut on the other side. Tightens up things a bit for leakage and helps when it's a one person assembly. I would assume if you do run big with the drilled installation hole just use some silicon on the threads and in the holes.

[Charlie Mason]

My biggest suggestion is to elevate the shack while assembling. I put one together on an apartment kitchen table, but saw horses are always good too

[Tony Mariotti]

I put together a Jason Mitchell Thermal X last night with a buddy, putting the lights and power source on first was a good decision. It went up quickly, and I soaked the v channel in hot water which made it easy to work with. Can't wait for first ice!