2004 Ski Nautique, rear cleat is loose

[motoxr]

With the recent purchase of our 2004 Ski Nautique, I noticed that the Starboard rear cleat is loose.

My initial thought was to remove the panel section with the grab handles and speaker. However, as I started into that process, it seemed that there may be a better way.

Any insight or words of wisdom is appreciated.

[Ray]

If you mean the retractable part is loose, I had the same issue last week with the rope getting caught in cleat all the time.

If your cleat design is similar to an early 2000 Malibu, it's a simple fix. Unscrew the phillips rounded head screws that are holding the cleat from the back and bend the washer tabs outward to create more friction. Reinstall and enjoy.

If the whole cleat is loose, just tighten the large hex nuts.

Here's a back view pic:

Edited July 9, 2023 by Ray
misspell

[motoxr]

Thank you so much Ray.

My biggest issue at this point is getting to the actual underside of the cleat.

I was hoping to be able to simply reach up from underneath. However, it's far too tight and I suspect I will have to remove some interior panels. 

Curious if anyone had some experience in how to remove the panels without causing any damage.