Corroded wires, relatively heavy gauge

[Brian S]

Keep your eye on those square backing plates from MSC. 18-8 isn't a great gauge of stainless for boats. 316 would be more corrosion resistant. But for a dry bilge, well...

 

[thinwater]

^^ Interesting point... But I wonder if an 18-8 / 304 SS washer has ever failed on a boat? Different stress from a bolt, particularly as a 1/4" thick backing plate. I'm thinking the odds are remote to the point of impossible.

 

[Brian S]

Did I say "gauge of stainless?" Derp, it was late last night, couldn't sleep. I mean to say "isn't a great grade of stainless." I would be not very concerned about such a backing plate failing. I'd be more concerned at it rusting. That would also be a bigger concern for a bilge that is damp, or wet even.