Rust on backstays under plastic covers

[reverie]

Hello all,

I have (had) tubular plastic covers on the backstays and babystay of my 2004 SO35. Not sure if they were original equipment, or installed by the previous owner. Last weekend, I slid them up so I could get a Loos gauge on them while tuning the rig. I was surprised to see rust/corrosion on the stays.

The covers on the lower back stays fit tightly, so no air circulation underneath them. However, the one on the babystay fit more loosely - but still some corrosion on the baby stay.

The boat was launched in 2005, so fairly new. And has only been sailed in fresh water. So salt isn't a factor.

The corrosion is not severe (yet), but certainly noticeable. At this point, I'll do nothing other than monitor the situation - and, yes, I have removed thecovers and won't be re-installing them. I also wiped them with a rag moistened with WD40 to get a bit of oil on the stays.

I suggest you check under your plastic covers to determine the condition of your stays. I'd also be interested to hear whether others have had this experience.

Many thanks,

John

[reverie]

PS..all other stays/shrouds look like new, with no corrosion.

John

[Deleted]

Hi John,
I have a 2003 SO35 bought new. My boat did not come any covers and doubt any S035s did come with OEM covers.

- James

[Black Diamond]

I entered a few ocean races last year. One of the qualifying criteria was to remove all covers on your life lines, or standing rigging. Reason, you can see if the lines are corroded, and become a safety concern. If they are covered, and you assume they are fine, and someone falls on the lines, and they snap, you will never know they need replacing.

Removing them actually prevents corrosion, since you can keep them clean with fresh water, or attack and rust signs early.

www.radonic.wordpress.com

[reverie]

Thanks, guys.

I'll be sure to put these covers directly in the trash.

I fairly certain I've caught the situation fairly early, but won't be making this mistake again.

John

[MalcolmP]

I have seen the same problem if owners/riggers put on too much electric insulating tape to cover the split pins

Best to ensure air can circulate etc

Malcolm

[boltnbrew]

I have it that they are also known as a "Rigger's Friend" since you will replace your rigging prematurely if you take away air from stainless. I'm sure other metallurgists could explain "why", but I have seen it happen to stainless which was without air circulation.