pop rivets on the mast

[Redbeard33]

I have the mast down and stripped, i just finished the final coat of paint and will start adding hardware this week. I was wondering if i could attach the spreader brackets with aluminum pop rivets, or are stainless really needed? I am trying to prevent the bi-metal corrosion that the mast had when i pulled it apart. I figure that speeders are mostly in compression and maybe aluminum is alright? also, is there a caulk or sealant that should be added between the hardware and painted mast?

 

[Don Guillette]

Instead of pop rivets, take a look at RIVNUTS. They look like a top hat that's threaded inside. I used them with most Garhauer applications I installed. They are a product developed for the airplane industry and the automotive industry uses them also to install lights , mirrors etc on school buses, ploice cars ambulances and the like where thin metal is involved.

If one ever pulled out it, which it won't, it would take a chunk of the mast with it. Just add a little anti corrosive beteen the top hat and the alum. Harbor Freight sells them