I've worked on a number of Commander projects where the fastener threads are in good shape, the head is not rounded and there is mild (superficial) corrosion. The same goes for nuts and washers. My understanding is that much of the corrosion resistance of SS (316/304) comes from the high polish/smooth surface. I've noticed that a few fasteners that I have "restored" with a fine wire wheel corrode more readily. I hate to spend $ replacing fasteners if I don't need to.... so my question is this...
What do each of you do with stainless steel fasteners that have light corrosion?
Scott:
I look at this all the time myself. You are in good company. I work it out this way. If the "thing" the SS fastner enables is important to the running, floating, or extended capability of the boat, I use new SS unless it is an emergency repair. I use hose clamps over and over, but they get inspected and tested. Stainless should only rust if the air does not get to it. I have a bucket of SS items from old projects. I use them when I can, but I don't try to save money if it risks the boat. If I see rust on an old SS piece from a salvage, I toss it or use it where it is not risky to do so. I have found that some of the steel that comes from India and Pakistan are not as pure SS as from other countries. If China gets a bigger market share, we will have to watch the quality of their goods. I shop at Harbour Freight all them, but only for certain items.
The second thing you mention is the corrosion. That word used with SS makes me think galvanic. I try not to mix metals together, ever, especially around salty water. SS nuts and washers on SS bolts. I do not mix aluminum with SS unless I can put plastic between the two as in hinges, etc. or trim, or an aluminum piece on a stainlees piece. I do not mix SS with iron.
SS is stainless because of the nickel in it. It should not rust. I do not really think the shine of the surface has too much to do with the corrosion.
With the price of SS being what it is, I am always looking for cheap sources. Some salvage yards sell SS by the pound and you take your chances with what you get. Grab bag stuff, but much cheaper.
The last comment I have also regards the crazy price of SS. We never really own a piece of SS, we simply keep it safe for the next generation!
Jerry
Jerry
If they are "structural" and integrity is important, I go new. If they are "cosmetic" and holding up a freshly varnished panel of some sort, I go new. If they are holsing a cabinet or something like that together and are not showing and seem to be in good shape, I re-use. I always save decent ones that I did not re-use for a possible later use.