Willie Blog
How to Install a New Web Kit on Your Willie Boat
Replacing a worn web kit is a straightforward project that can help restore proper support and tension to your Willie Boat lid. In this guide, Jarrod from Willie Boats walks through the tools and steps needed to remove the old webbing, install the replacement and get your boat ready for the river.
What Comes in the Web Kit?
Your replacement web kit includes:
- New webbing
- Rivet
- Turnbuckle
- Installation instructions
Tools You’ll Need
Before getting started, gather the following tools:
- 3/16-inch drill bit
- Sacrificial drill bit or another metal tool for creating a hole in the webbing
- Cutters
- Rivet gun
- Two clamps
- A safe heat source
Always use caution when working with heated tools, sharp cutters and power tools. Protect your hands and work in a well-ventilated area.
Step 1: Remove the Old Webbing
Begin by using the 3/16-inch drill bit to carefully drill through the center of the existing rivet. Once the rivet has been removed, pull off the old webbing.
If it makes the process easier, you can cut away the old material before removing the remaining pieces.
Step 2: Position the New Webbing
Start in the back left corner and place the new webbing in position. Use a clamp to hold it securely while you work.
Before reconnecting the turnbuckle, extend it all the way. Starting with the turnbuckle fully extended gives you the maximum amount of future adjustability, allowing you to tighten the webbing as it stretches over time. This helps keep the lid properly supported rather than allowing it to sag into the compartment below.
Step 3: Remove the Slack
Use a second clamp to secure the front left corner. From there, gently pull the webbing toward the front right corner to remove some of the slack.
This should be a controlled, moderate pull. The goal is to create even tension without overtightening the webbing.
Step 4: Prepare the Webbing for Reattachment
Fold the end of the webbing underneath itself so the material overlaps the rivet hole twice. This double layer gives the rivet more material to hold onto.
Once the webbing is positioned:
- Mark where the excess material should be removed.
- Leave yourself a little extra length for the fold.
- Cut off the excess.
- Carefully heat-seal the cut end to prevent fraying.
- Fold the sealed end back underneath itself.
The folded webbing should overlap the mounting hole and create a reinforced attachment point.
Step 5: Create the Rivet Hole
Heat the end of a sacrificial drill bit or similar tool and carefully create a hole through the folded webbing.
Watch your fingers and use caution around the heated tool. The hole only needs to be large enough for the supplied rivet.
Step 6: Secure the Webbing
Roll the folded section underneath, align the new hole with the mounting point and insert the rivet. Use your rivet gun to set the rivet securely.
Once the rivet is installed, remove the clamp from the front corner.
Step 7: Reconnect and Adjust the Turnbuckle
Pull the webbing from the front edge toward the back until you can reconnect the turnbuckle hook to its mounting hole.
After the hook is in place, tighten the turnbuckle to remove the remaining slack. Adjust it until the webbing provides firm, even support beneath the lid.
Ready for the River
Once the webbing is secured and the turnbuckle is properly adjusted, your new web kit is ready to go. Check the tension periodically and use the turnbuckle to make small adjustments as the webbing naturally stretches over time.
With the installation complete, it’s time to get your Willie Boat back on the river.
