Stanchion Base "Cup"

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drdanj's picture
drdanj
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Joined: 8/28/10
Posts: 62
Stanchion Base "Cup"

I've gotten different dock mate opinions, wonder if C36 folks might know more specifically: The bases of the stanchions on Tao all have a slight upward cupping on their outer sides, maybe 3/16ths of a rise. They are not perfectly flat, do not sit tight against the deck top. The stanchions are not loose or anything, just have this upward cupping between the outer bolts.

One opinion: They have all been stressed over time and should be removed and flattened or replaced. Another opinion: This is by design to avoid water having any possibility of standing trapped beneath them, essentially a "drain."

Thoughts?

Dan
S/V Tao, C36
1983 #114

S/V Tao
Catalina 36
1983, Hull #114

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TomSoko
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Posts: 978

Dan,
As they came from the factory, the base plates on the stanchions were flat. I think it would be a good idea to at least remove, flatten, and re-bed them. Hopefully the SS won't be stressed, or replacement would be in order. While you have them off, you should check for any moisture in the deck core around them.

Tom Sokoloski
C36/375IA Past Commodore
Noank, CT

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drdanj
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Posts: 62

Thanks Tom, I'll dig deeper into this.

S/V Tao
Catalina 36
1983, Hull #114

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TomSoko
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Posts: 978

Dan,
You are quite welcome. Might I suggest you update your "signature" on this forum. It would help others help you by knowing who you are, where you sail, and more about your boat. Click on the User CP in the upper left corner.

Tom Sokoloski
C36/375IA Past Commodore
Noank, CT

Maine Sail
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Joined: 2/26/10
Posts: 324

This cupping is fairly standard on the stanchions many production builders use made from sheet stainless. The only way to stop it is to upgrade to cast bases or to increase the plate thickness. Flattening them is only a temporary measure and they will again flex and break the seal. If you re-bed them properly, in their pre-bent fashion, they will be fine but I would suggest a more permanently flexible sealant like butyl tape rather than devils glue (aka 5200).. It is a good idea to properly pot the holes with epoxy and slightly bevel the holes too..

If you think the Catalina stanchions are flexy this is a two year old Hunter 45+ footer..

And a good reason why I dislike "devils glue"...

[IMG]http://www.pbase.com/mainecruising/image/129651453.jpg[/IMG]

-Maine Sail
https://www.marinehowto.com/

 

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