[quote=MN3][quote] is it a good idea to take the bolts out that hold the main beams on? are they prone to turning loose (the nuts in the hull)?[/quote]
YES and NO!
everyone should have working beam bolts BUT many of us have beam bolts that have not been turned in years/decades... etc
I had to remove my beams at separate times for repairs and both times the internal alum plate that acts as the nut was worn out enough to warrant repair
TURN SLOWLY. And if there is friction [b]or noise,[/b] turn about 1/3 of a turn and let it cool off (move to another bolt). the amount of heat that builds up is pretty amazing in just a few turns. If you hear loud creaking as you turn, your bolts have gauled up and are probably going to snap or require cutting off.
If they don't snap you should defiantly run a tap through the beam plate(or nut) and a die over the bolt before using them again.
If your nut or plate strips, there are 2 choices. Use a heli-coil to replace the threads. This method required you to drill out the holes (up to the next size), tap the new holes, and then screw in new threads (the heli-coil) with a special tool that screws them in reverse. Then your threads are good as new - I have done this on all 4 of my beam bolts due to excessive "play" in my threads (was discovered during repairs)
The other option is to simply drill out the threads, and re-tap to the next size bolt, and replace the bolts.
when you put the bolts back in liberally coat the bolts/nuts with Tef-Gel or similar (but Tef-Gel seems to be the preferred product). It will lubricate and prevent galvanic corrosion between dissimilar metals.
If you can: store as many items inside as possible, esp mast since it is sealed, if there is moisture or condensation inside it.. it can expand and blow out in the winter... My friend was a Spar Welder and would see exploded parts from the north that blew out with freezing<!-- editby --><em>Edited by MN3 on Oct 09, 2012 - 08:49 AM.</em><!-- end editby --> [/quote]
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