Silicone over grate bolts

[CrankyGypsy]

I believe the thinking in filling the holes is to reduce drag across the hull rather than turbulence through the pump (there is only one bolt before the pump). imagine a hundred holes and the amount of drag that would produce. granted, it's only about 22, but doesn't everyone agree a polished/wax hull is "quicker" than one that isn't?

 

[dansshin]

You would think they could have used tight fitting rubber plugs or something more durable...