Rebed Chainplates

[Jeff Dunham]

My 1981 Hunter 30 developed a mystery leak on the starboard side, about mid-ship. I am thinking that one or all three of the chain plates that passes through the side deck may be leaking due to caulking failure. Before I begin to remove and recaulk I would like to see if anyone has suggestions on a correct way to disconnect the chain plate, stays, and reattach. Specifically:1. The chain plate is attached by a soild rod to a turnbuckle then to the midship internal stringer. Should I back off this internal turnbuckle first before attempting to disconnect the above deck fitting? Or should I disconnect the turnbuckle above deck first and then the internal turnbuckle?2. In reconnecting the stay, which is connected first? How much downward force (tight?) should the internal turnbuckle be, before reattaching the turnbuckle on the stay? I am concerned about having too much downward pull and cracking the deck. Just the opposite and the screws holding the plate could rip out, or at least allow the plate to rise amd allow leakes.3. Any recommendation on an appropriate type of caulk?Thanks in advance.JMD

 

[Chris Stone]

Easy to rebed

If your '81 is at all like my '78, it has cover plates around the chainplates as they enter the deck. All I did to rebed was loosen the screws holding the cover plates down and lift them up around the chainplate. I cleaned out the old bedding as best I could and rebedded with 3M 4200. Seems fine now. Didn't need to disconnect shrouds or anything. Good luck.ChrisH30 "Passages"

 

[Jeff Dunham]

Chain Plate Redux

Chris,Thanks but the stainless chain plate on my '81 is one piece. The flange with four screw holes is welded as part of the assembly. Removal of the chain plate required disassembly from the shroud and lower connection. What I am looking for is any guidance on the torque the lower connection should be set at to counter the tension on the shrouds. Any ideas?JeffTranquility