Chainplate/ Chainplate screw failure

[Moose]

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

[algonquin]

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

[K.C. Walker]

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

[GreenLake]

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.

[Woden]

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.

[Moose]

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

[talbot]

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.