Any thoughts on why this is corroding?
- Thread starter yelkenli
- Start date
Wrong type of wire... Never seen a turnbuckle locked like that.... use monel wire or 316 tig welding rod.
We're the threads lubricated before fitting the turnbuckle?
We're the threads lubricated before fitting the turnbuckle?
That works, except the OP is on freshwater.
SS is still an iron product and I believe there can be residual iron on the surface of the SS that will rust. 18-8 and 304 can exhibit this. I'm sure a metallurgist could provide a much more in-depth explanation.
Not all SS rigging is 316. On freshwater boats 304 is often used which is more prone to showing rust stains.
Remove the wire and use split rings or cutter pins and wrap with tape or put canvas around it.
It maybe stainless-steel safety wire, just not a high grade of stainless steel.
I'm trying to figure out the safety wire routing and I am baffled. It would certainly do the job but so would a simple loop or even a figure eight on each of the studs. I must be missing something.
I'm trying to figure out the safety wire routing and I am baffled. It would certainly do the job but so would a simple loop or even a figure eight on each of the studs. I must be missing something.
In my 40 plus years of sailboat ownership I've never had a turnbuckle unscrew itself. The wire is overkill, unnecessary and could be dangerous unless wrapped with tape. Cotter rings (or split rings) are the more common method. Cotter pins are also common, just make sure you only bend ONE leg back at 45 deg so it's easy to remove, then wrap with tape so sails and ankles aren't scratched.
Last edited:
jssailem
SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
- Oct 22, 2014
- 23,346
The safety wire approach is a bit overkill. In 2015 this question was asked and answered.
Securing turnbuckles
I have use cotter pins and split rins to make sure my turnbuckles don't turn once the rig is turned. It seems to me wire ties would the job with less hassle. Thoughts?
forums.sailboatowners.com
The boat had cotter pins originally. It was a PITA to get them removed (for boat hauling). They bent and there is little room to install or remove. I'll never use cotter pins again. Mechanics wire is too easy and does the trick. Run the wire through one hole and down to the other then twist. I believe I found the idea on this forum.
Also, @Joe I don't see the safety issue compared to a pin. Both are metal and both have ends. The end of the wire is tucked away easily inside the turnbuckle and none of it moves (probably the same could be done for cotter pins). Tape could be good, but tape also covers up issues and traps moisture.
Maybe a ring would work, but I don't see a ring or a pin stopping the turning. If turnbuckles don't ever turn, then why bother with a safety mechanism. They can turn, that is why. Always place your bets in the right games.