1990 hunter 30 chain plate rods

[cruisingretired]

I looked at a 1990 Hunter 30 today and during my initial inspection I found some things that cause me to have concern over whether I should even continue with a survey or not. The boat is clean has not been "sailed" very much(dock sucker). I inspected the chain plate rods that enter into the cabin. I observed that the top locking nut was hand loose on both sides and the main nut was rusting. Its a tight area to get a better look, but I am wondering if its a significant problem and how hard it would be to replace them. I am also wondering how the the bottom of the rods are attached to the inside bulkhead/chainplate mounts. Its very hard to see what going on in that space. Opinions are valued and any information provided is appreciated. Pic attached below.

 

[Famos_Amos]

Mine look like that too. When I had my mast down the rods were loose (could wiggle back and forth). I used The opportunity to lift the port chainplate and re-bed it as it appeared to have been leaky at some point. From what I could tell, that large nut is just the top of the rod extension that descends into an iron bar. Turning it will adjust the tension between the deck plate and the bar (doesn't need much). I snugged each up just to where they wouldn't wiggle (again the mast was down so no tension on the system) The SS nut prevents the lower extension from turning/loosening.

 

[Famos_Amos]

Here's where I posted the same question (with a pic) http://forums.sailboatowners.com/index.php?threads/early-90s-sidestay-chainplate-design.171663/

 

[cruisingretired]

Did you find out whats under the bulkhead liner? I cant't believe that Hunter would use Iron thats not encapsulated. Is there anyway to get to where it attaches under the liner without cutting away fiberglass? Is there anyone that you know of that night know? I emailed Hunter and they are now owned by Marlow, but I don;t think they had any answers. I would like to know whether it's worth repairing this or walk away, before I decide to purchase. Any information is appreciated.

 

[Famos_Amos]

Hunter got back to me to explain how to re-bed the deck plate, but didn't provide any additional info on the build. I did find some diagrams online ( http://www.ayesail.net/sailing/Hunter/Hunter23_45/target41.html ) but doesn't represent exactly what you may be looking at. To be honest, I asked a number of people who suggested that it is indeed bare steel, but (for as long as I will own the boat) the surface rust will not affect the integrity of the lower system. You can get a small camera and a good light and observe the surface down from the opening, but the only way to inspect or replace it is to cut it out of the hull. Now, this being the internet there will be no shortage of people who will insist the only solution is to tear it apart and rebuild it with ss, however IMHO, these chainplates will never be the weakest part of my rig.

 

[Stu Jackson]

Chainplates should be, but often aren't, part of REGULAR PERIODIC MAINTENANCE. Why folks neglect them is beyond me.

That looks like a robust and good system.

Find the leaks at the deck level, seal them with butyl tape, clean up the rust, and keep on goin'. If the rest of the boat's clean, that's really good.

Good luck.