Compression post rot

[Greg]

I have the rot in my compression post like many other 31 and 34 owners have discussed. I have read the archives about fixing it. I have seen the discussion of using a stainless steel replacement post. Is there any reason not to replace the post with "wolmanized" or treated pine?

 

[Steve Dion]

Why?

Greg:If you want to use treated pine it should work fine. There was only fir in there to begin with. The only problem I see is that everyone that replaced their compression posts wanted to do it for the LAST time. Using Stainless or Alum should outlast the boat.Treated wood only *resists* rot. You also have to worry about it warping too. This is a big job and the cost of the post is the smallest part of the job. If you need to replace the cross member you are also going to have cost for glassing and gel coat repair too.Look in the photo forum and see Allans write up on this for his H'34.

 

[Bob Rutland]

I did it.

I replaced my rotton compression post with a cut down(approx.3"x3")pressure treated 4x4 post. Pressure treated pine has a lifetime guarantee against rot.Like Steve said, the original post was untreated fir. This lasted 16 years on my boat.Stainless would be better, but if you fix the leak, pressure treated wood should last another 20 years.Good Luck,  Bob S/V Lady Di II