Repairing an aluminum spar

Sonosailor · 03-12-2003, 05:04

My mast has a small crack. It is the result of strain on an eyestrap that holds a block to reroute the mainsheet. The eyestrap is actually recessed into the mast but riveted to the outside shell, and the crack is between the lower fastening rivet and the hole through which the eyestrap exits the mast.

I have a sheet of 316 stainless steel to cover the area, and am intending to re-install the rivets through the steel to the eyestrap, and then rivet around the area. This is the repair suggested by Z-Spar. My question is whether I should use any material like silicone between the steel and the aluminum to control crevice corrosion. Any need? Any other suggestions?

03-12-2003, 05:04	#1
Sonosailor Registered User Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Fredericton, NB, Canada in the summer and fall; Caribbean in winter and spring aboard Cat Tales. Boat: FP Tobago 35 - Cat Tales Posts: 356	Repairing an aluminum spar My mast has a small crack. It is the result of strain on an eyestrap that holds a block to reroute the mainsheet. The eyestrap is actually recessed into the mast but riveted to the outside shell, and the crack is between the lower fastening rivet and the hole through which the eyestrap exits the mast. I have a sheet of 316 stainless steel to cover the area, and am intending to re-install the rivets through the steel to the eyestrap, and then rivet around the area. This is the repair suggested by Z-Spar. My question is whether I should use any material like silicone between the steel and the aluminum to control crevice corrosion. Any need? Any other suggestions?

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes	Rate This Thread
Switch to Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Threaded Mode	Rate This Thread:

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
Aluminum spar damage.	irwinsailor	Construction, Maintenance & Refit	2	01-05-2004 21:52