Thanks Mat.............you have always been very helpful and I, for one, do appreciate it. I intend to do exactly as you suggest.

BTW.............I have a keyed cable type lock with a slim end that should work just fine and dandy for sliding though the tugeye.........FWIW I picked it up at either Lowes or Home Depot, they come in various lengths..........3/8 cable I think, fairly substantial..............I will likely also slide my radio shack motion detector alarm up inside the boat as per my usual custom.

Mounted depth finder, GPS, rod holder, and a unique system for holding 3 rods..............came out great, very pleased. Pics will come with TR (Lord willing)................