DaySailer.org Forum

I was out sailing yesterday when I noticed that one of the bolts on my side-staysnapped off at the head. Anyone else have this problem?

I dont think the stays were set too tight. I also don't know about the origin or quality of the bolts. Probably replace them all with 316 S.S. BHCS's

I haven’t had this happen but it does bring to light the importance of regular inspections of the rigging and all its attachments. Especially as the fleet ages. Brad

I've definitely had failures in stainless steel fasteners due to corrosion. My stemhead plate cracked and looking at the cracked place it definitely looked rusty. I also had a turnbuckle bolt shear off, and looking at that it also looked rusty and obviously had been cracked. I think 316 bolts are a really good idea. Saltwater and stainless definitely has a lifespan. Threaded parts are more vulnerable from what I understand.

KC

SS corrosion is accelerated by salt and oxygen depletion (the oxygen is needed to constantly restore a film of surface oxides that make the material stainless). Crevices and crevice-like places, like treads, are the most vulnerable, esp. for saltwater use.

I popped the head off of one of my chain stay bolts last year. I drilled them out and replaced them with 1/4 SS bolts. No problems.

I plan on replacing them(all of them Friday. Hopefully that will stop any problems.

I have found the #10 bolts don't align precisely, and that after use the heads are tweaked out of line. I didn't drill mine out, but have taken to replacing them each spring.