Two-Hole Deck Clip – Chromed Base Stud (Male) for Boat Cover

The two-hole deck clip (code 03977) is a stationary male fastener that mounts securely to a hard part of the boat and serves as an attachment point for canvas covers. Its design features a flat oval base with two screw holes and an integrated stud in the center, which mates with a corresponding female clip on the canvas.

Materials and Build: The base is made of solid brass for strength and corrosion resistance, and it has a shiny chrome-plated finish. The chrome not only gives it a polished look that matches other hardware, but also provides extra protection against wear and the marine environment. The screw holes are countersunk, allowing the screws (typically #6 or #8 stainless screws) to sit flush or slightly recessed once installed. This contributes to a low profile – once mounted, the clip lies nearly flat against the surface, with no sharp edges sticking up to snag or cut. The edges of the base are smoothly rounded for safety and aesthetics.

Mounting to the Boat: To secure the clip, two screws are used (wood screws for timber, self-tapping for fiberglass, or machine screws with nuts if through-bolting on metal). The two-point attachment ensures the base will not rotate or loosen under tension from the cover. It’s recommended to dab a bit of marine sealant under the base and on the screw threads during installation – this seals any drill holes against moisture and adds holding strength. After positioning, the screws are tightened down so the base sits flush and firm.

Compatibility: The central stud of this clip is sized to fit the female tent clip (code 03974) and other components of EVAL’s system. When the female part on your canvas is pressed onto this stud and slightly pushed/snapped, it locks in place securely. This snap-on connection allows for repeated attachment and removal, while remaining reliable each time.

Use Cases: The 2-screw base clip is ideal for securing canvas to a solid structure. Common examples include:

• Mounting along the edges of a fiberglass cockpit coaming to hold a canvas cockpit cover taut in place.
• Installing on the frame of a windshield or coaming – for instance, at the front of a bimini top where it attaches to the top of the windshield, these clips can accept the front curtain or cover.
• Placing on the boat’s gunwale or transom to anchor a full boat cover when the vessel is stored – instead of relying on straps or bungees alone, the cover can positively lock to these studs, preventing it from flapping.
• Affixing to the sides of a cabin top or wheelhouse to secure removable side panels or awnings. Essentially, any place you need a sturdy stud on the boat for a canvas to clip onto, this base does the job.

Advantages: The two-screw fastening provides confidence that even under heavy wind or motion, the attachment won’t give way. Unlike a single screw stud which might eventually loosen by twisting, the wider 2-hole base distributes the load and stays put. The chromed brass construction will not suffer from UV degradation or salt spray – you won’t get rust streaks or weakening over time.

When no canvas is attached, the base is unobtrusive – its smooth shape prevents tripping or fouling lines. You can leave it installed year-round, ready to receive the cover whenever needed. Maintenance is minimal: just rinse occasionally and check the screws during your seasonal boat inspection to ensure they remain tight.

With clip 03977 used in conjunction with female clip 03974, you have a complete “canvas-to-deck” fastening system. This greatly simplifies installing and removing covers – instead of tying cords or struggling with zippers, a simple snap secures the fabric. The product is an industry standard often found in OEM boat canvas setups, meaning it’s tried-and-true. It provides a professional, reliable solution for keeping covers in place, and it will serve you well by protecting your boat and canvas through rough weather and travel.