Electrical Panel rusty screws - 2006 423

[PDReynolds]

Another strange little issue with my new boat I would like to try and figure out.

There is a DC main and 2 AC electrical distribution panels made by UPM - Ultra Panel marine Inc out of Miami Fl and 80% of the breaker switch screws are rusted. These are the many screws that are aligned with the LED lights.

There is essentially no signs of any rust anywhere else in the boat so I thought it unusual that these black colour screws would be rusty. Given the age of the boat this should not be happening.

Any thoughts on the cause and where I can get replacements? The screws are black, phillips, countersunk head - approx. 1/4" in length in 3 mm thread.

 

[Captn TJ]

Can you just take them out and wire brush them - then flat black enamel applied with a spot applicator used on cars

 

[Stu Jackson]

That's a good idea.

That's also a nice panel.

I'm sure you've considered that the first thing you need to do is find out where the water is coming from and seal it with butyl tape.

Good luck, it's a keeper-panel.