Scotty Downrigger Locks

Klob

Well-Known Member
While were on the subject of Scotty's, has any one had much experience with the Scotty locks for downriggers, i.e. corrosion, strength and are they only a deterent or do they really work. I know if someone really wants something bad enough..............
 
I replaced all the bolts on my swivels and the one holding the downrigger on with regular hex head bolts. Easy enough to steal if you have a wrench but at least you can't just twist them out.
 
I replaced all the bolts on my swivels and the one holding the downrigger on with regular hex head bolts. Easy enough to steal if you have a wrench but at least you can't just twist them out.
 
I am using those locks, and i think they are a deterrent
however, the stainless they are made of is questionable as they
are rusting. Also had a problem with one getting the key into
the brass tumbler due to corrosion.

fearnofishy-1-1.jpg
 
I am using those locks, and i think they are a deterrent
however, the stainless they are made of is questionable as they
are rusting. Also had a problem with one getting the key into
the brass tumbler due to corrosion.

fearnofishy-1-1.jpg
 
I put grease in the tumblers before i put them on and have had no problem at all with them if a thief sees locks on them he will just move on to the next ones they want fast easy way of getting stuff.
 
I put grease in the tumblers before i put them on and have had no problem at all with them if a thief sees locks on them he will just move on to the next ones they want fast easy way of getting stuff.
 
I like the idea of the hex bolts rather than these locks. I've had the locks on for less than 1 year and three of them have seized solid. Most certainly you need to lube them -- I'd suggest that white lithium spray lube. The rubber covers are not UV stabilized and will rot off in less than a year (mine did). I was able to get 3 of the locks working again with PB Blaster (it's the stuff the muffler shops use to loosen bolts).

One of the stupid things with these locks is the keys. For 2 riggers you get 4 locks and 4 different keys. Problem is, all the keys are different and they are extremely flimsy and while the keys are numbered, the locks aren't. So, when you have a sticky lock and no idea which key works it can be an extremely frustrating exercise trying to get the riggers off. I ended up having to use a saws-all and cut the plastic tabs off the head of the fastener to get the lock with the broken key off.

I now need to fasten my riggers to the boat again -- any idea where to get Stainless hex bolts?
 
I like the idea of the hex bolts rather than these locks. I've had the locks on for less than 1 year and three of them have seized solid. Most certainly you need to lube them -- I'd suggest that white lithium spray lube. The rubber covers are not UV stabilized and will rot off in less than a year (mine did). I was able to get 3 of the locks working again with PB Blaster (it's the stuff the muffler shops use to loosen bolts).

One of the stupid things with these locks is the keys. For 2 riggers you get 4 locks and 4 different keys. Problem is, all the keys are different and they are extremely flimsy and while the keys are numbered, the locks aren't. So, when you have a sticky lock and no idea which key works it can be an extremely frustrating exercise trying to get the riggers off. I ended up having to use a saws-all and cut the plastic tabs off the head of the fastener to get the lock with the broken key off.

I now need to fasten my riggers to the boat again -- any idea where to get Stainless hex bolts?
 
i agree the locks are a a pain in the *^*& to keep working but they keep the quick thief from taking them off your boat while your having a burger somewhere. try fastenal for stainless bolts.
 
i agree the locks are a a pain in the *^*& to keep working but they keep the quick thief from taking them off your boat while your having a burger somewhere. try fastenal for stainless bolts.
 
Like Wolf said lube them up before you put them on. One was not working so back to Scotty it went. Like all new products, they are always working on ways to improve there products, and welcome any ideas..

Tournament Proven !
 
Like Wolf said lube them up before you put them on. One was not working so back to Scotty it went. Like all new products, they are always working on ways to improve there products, and welcome any ideas..

Tournament Proven !
 
I got my SS bolts at Daigle in Campbell River also Ocean pacific might ahve them. I couldn't get them at CT here just weren't in stock.
 
I use bolts like these ones and after they're installed I've drilled the allen key part so you have to put a lot of effort to take them out
cheers

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quote:Originally posted by Gypseas

I use bolts like these ones and after they're installed I've drilled the allen key part so you have to put a lot of effort to take them out
cheers

chrome-button-head-socket-screws.jpg


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So what happens if you ever want to get them off?

Highliner
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quote:Originally posted by Highliner

quote:Originally posted by Gypseas

I use bolts like these ones and after they're installed I've drilled the allen key part so you have to put a lot of effort to take them out
cheers

chrome-button-head-socket-screws.jpg


gonefishingsign.gif

So what happens if you ever want to get them off?

Highliner
Fish2-2.gif

When I did it with countersunk allens, and drilled out the holes out, I had no trouble getting them out with a Canadian Tire Screw extractor. And I had red loc-tite on them too.
 
LC beat me to it. Sure is cheap and a beach to remove LOL
If they want it they'll have to work for it
cheers

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