loose screws on boom

[Chris]

I sail a C27. I was inspecting my boom yesterday and about an inch aft of the forward end of the boom I found matching screws on both sides of the boom that are quite loose. They can't be tightened and I'm wondering what the screws are (were) doing up there. Has anyone seen these things before? Why do I need to worry about this? Thanks!

 

[Dave Viglierchio]

End Cap?

I just rebuilt my C-36 boom and at each end there are screws holding in the end caps. If this is your situation I would suggest pulling them out (mine were sheet metal screws) and tapping the cap so you can replace with the next size bigger machine screws. Coat with some anti-seize goo so they will come out if necesary.

 

[Mike Turner]

End Cap

I had a C25 (have a C30 now) and had the same thing -- it was the screws holding the end cap on. As it happened, the end cap broke one day, and the replacement didn't have any holes drilled, so I bought new screws, drilled and set them. Worked just fine. But in any event I think I'd remvoe these screws and replace them with ones that screw down tight -- less likely to shear off.Mike TurnerS/V Amity

 

[Nigel]

I assume that you mean the screws that atach the gooseneck (an aluminum casting) to the boom. The screws in mine were also very loose and I imagine that the next size up had already been used to replace the originals. When looking for even bigger screws there were none in stock at the marine store and the owner recommended using aluminum epoxy (made by Evercoat and comes as a stick and costs about $8.00) to fill the holes. Once hardened new holes can be drilled and self tapping screws used. I have filled the holes but have not yet drilled the new ones - but it seems as if this will be a much better solution long term. The epoxy apparently works well with the cast aluminum goose neck. Mine is a '74 C-27 and I do not know if later models also have a casting.