ZFT3 bracket support install

[Juiced190]

I just purchased these support brackets for my 07 X2 with the ZFT3 tower. Who has experience installing these after the factory build? Obviously there are directions included but just wanted some advice and information from anyone that has personal experience doing this before I dive into it. Would it be easier to install on the boat or should I have the rear tower section off to install? Thanks

[Juiced190]

Still looking for some information on this. Has anyone installed these brackets after purchase? Are there any secrets to removing the bolts that have been holding this tower together since 2007. Four of the larger aluminum will have to be removed and new longer bolts installed in aluminum threads? They seem very tight and I’ve been reluctant to use a torque wrench or any type of impact driver to loosen. Were these towers (ZFT3) assembled with any type of tread lock? I need some help on this asap, I’m trying to get this tower installed and put on the lift this weekend. Thank you

[Skram]

I don’t know the answer for certain but I’m guessing it’s just corrosion. I had to remove the board racks off my 2007 tower to install slalom racks and I ended up having to cut the heads off the bolts. I damaged them too much trying to get them off. Lots of penetrating oil and a stud extractor eventually got them out. Hopefully you have better luck.

[Juiced190]

Does anyone here on TeamTalk have experience adding tower brackets to their tower? Or any experience working with aluminum bolts into aluminum? Should these be heated before removal?

[HurricaneMC]

Does anyone here on TeamTalk have experience adding tower brackets to their tower? Or any experience working with aluminum bolts into aluminum? Should these be heated before removal?

I wouldn't think the fasteners would be aluminum, more than likely they're stainless steel. I'd still be careful, however, as stainless is still fairly soft and can easily be damaged. I've removed several bolts from my ZFT3 tower and never noticed any evidence of a thread locker being used from the factory, but there was certainly some mild corrosion which sort of had the same effect. I'd just advise you to apply some penetrating oil use good quality hex keys that have no rounded corners at all. Give the oil time to get in there and then go at it carefully but forcefully with the hex wrench. Stay away from impact drivers if possible. I also would not use a torch anywhere unless you run into trouble, as this could cause unwanted stresses in the aluminum parts that cant be easily repaired or replaced. Best of luck!

[Juiced190]

You may be right on the bolts they may be stainless I haven’t really looked at them that closely. Can you recommend a good lubricant for a penetrating oil and a good brand of hex key sockets to use?

[Wheelin98TJ]

Kroil or Fluid Film are the best penetrants I have found. You can buy either on Amazon.

[Juiced190]

Kroil or Fluid Film are the best penetrants I have found. You can buy either on Amazon.

Is there anything I can buy at the parts store that would be really good. I’d like to get this done as soon as possible. Thank you

[Wheelin98TJ]

Is there anything I can buy at the parts store that would be really good. I’d like to get this done as soon as possible. Thank you

Fluid Film is at the parts stores and home improvement stores.

Kroil I haven't seen in stores.

[peytonvp]

I think I might be tackling the same project this weekend

[Juiced190]

Looks simple, sounds simple, but in my experience nothing is easy and everything takes twice as long and is a lot harder than expected. The last thing I want to do is strip or break a bolt where I can’t even remount the tower.

[Juiced190]

I think I might be tackling the same project this weekend

what boat and what tower are you attempting this on?

[peytonvp]

what boat and what tower are you attempting this on?

I am putting them on an x14

[peytonvp]

I did not have any luck with mine today. Tried for an hour and could not get them to budge comfortably.

[Juiced190]

Support brackets installed no issues. I used liquid wrench penetrating spray let set for 24 hours.