H34 Chainplate - Steel bar under liner

[GuyT]

Has anyone had to remove the steel bar between the liner and the hull that the chainplate rod screws into.I will be stepping the mast in the fall and would like to do a full inspection of my chainplate system - deck side re-bedding etc. etc...It seems that this steel bar can not be readily inspected or replaced if necessary and to make it out of plain steel is puzzling me why?How big is that steel bar under the liner and how would you inspect it or replace it if necessary??Can you slide it out to an area forward or aft through a cutout??

 

[Fred Ficarra7897]

It might be servicable.

I remember someone asking about it a couple of years ago. Seems they were cutting the hull to access it. But I don't recall why the need to do so. A annual 'chain plate inspection' is really not needed with this system. The reason is because the plate isn't subject to corrosion unless water is entering from the single deck hole above it. And that's easy to spot. I've never heard of any other instance where the system was less than 'good to go'.

 

[GuyT]

Thanks Fred.

I am concerned about it because I can see rust where the stainless meets the bar. And it looks deeper than scaling rust.An unfortunate design aspect of the boat is that the cut out for the plate(access hole) is on a horizontal ledge of the liner and any moisture will seep down the access hole before it sheds down the vertical sides of the liner. So, after many years corrosion may be possible even if only a little leak. We H34 owners know of lots of leak sources!Its like a water pool can form right on top of the plate and just sit there!If I knew the construction of the plate, I might be able to figure out a clever way of getting it out but, its hidden from view because there are no other cut outs close by. I'm wondering if it is flat or angle stock and the length of it if I need to replace it.This will be a "wait and see" until the chain plates are loose and see how it pans out. Just wish I could be more prepared for what I may have to do.

 

[Fred Ficarra7897]

Tom, it's not hard to check the plate.

Well, it's not easy either. First you need to see the plate. Get the stainless rod out of the way. If the mast is up, rig a preventer and remove the shrouds. Then remove the four screws on the corners of the deck fixture. Make sure the jam nut down inside the boat, at the lower plate is backed off. It's not needed so you might not have one. Then with a BF wrench, unscrew the deck assembly. COUNT YOUR TURNS. When it's out you'll be able to determine the condition of the nut welded onto the steel plate. My boat has a spare. If you've seen good looking steel vs. worn out steel, you'll know what to look for. A wire cup on a power drill and a vacuum will help get to the bottom of things. What you are doing is a survey. Also be advised that the steel beam will slide around. There's nothing to hold it in place. It self-centers when the deck plate assembly contacts it. Good luck but I don't think you'll need it. I'm betting it's OK.

 

[Gil C. - the Wanderin' One]

I was all worried about the rust...

... and scaly stuff on mine so took it all apart when the mast was off my '86H31. I have about 4-5 thread turns into the plate which is at least 3/8" thick and plenty strong. Basically it was 'much ado about nothing', but was good to re-caulk the deck where the chainplate is attached. It's unlikely you have a major problem so if it's not leaking at the deck, don't bother with it.