Strut Replacement

[Arrigo666]

Looking for any info on doing a strut replacement for my 1983 S2 9.2A...my current strut got eaten by electrolysis...so I need to see if I can track down the original manufacturer that I understand ...is still making the struts...also any ins and outs on the process of removing/ replacing would be great!...I hear that a galvanic isolator is the cure...but also hear that bonding is the answer...opinions/facts/ knowledge)...Thank you!

 

[Bob J.]

You should check out the S2 sailboat group on F.B. Some very knowledgable folks there.

 

[Arrigo666]

Thank You...but not on Facebook..have you read anything about where to get a replacement strut for the S2?...I just need a lead...thanks again!

 

[jssailem]

Welcome to the SBO forum Arrigo666.
Even in the best of situations, exposure to electrical stray DC current can get you. If this is a new to you type of issue, might I suggest looking at Everett Collier's book "The Boatowner's Guide to Corrosion" Especially starting at page 51. The pictures and discussion is factual and not boring technical.

Certainly installation of a Galvanic Isolation will help to address AC current at your shore power input. But thiss is not the only exposure.

What did your zincs look like when you discovered the strut was toast?
Were your zinc's in contact with the metal on your boat?(assure the zinc's are in contact with your metals you want to protect)
Were the zinc's painted by someone thinking that would help to preserve them? (Do not paint zinc's)

Good luck and hopefully your neighbors are not contributing to your issue.

 

[Arrigo666]

Thanks for your reply...the zink.was gone after new 6 months ago...and the front and back of strut are almost exposing the cutlass...definitely marina related...other boaters with similar.complaints...shafr and strut and prop not painted...zink not painted...

 

[jssailem]

Smart.
I have evolved onto a 6-8 month schedule of zinc on prop shaft replacement in my marina.
I know someone or ones are leaking DC current into the brine water surrounding my boat. Just not sure who?

 

[Arrigo666]

Smart.
I have evolved onto a 6-8 month schedule of zinc on prop shaft replacement in my marina.
I know someone or ones are leaking DC current into the brine water surrounding my boat. Just not sure who?

Hi...same here...but going to install a Galvanic Isolator...see if it works...but I need to find an S2 strut...any leads?

 

[jssailem]

Not sure if the strut was uniquely made for the S2.. I think not. Most of our boats were built buy sourcing parts from bidders and assembled on the Boat Builders hull and frame.

Here is one option for a strut. Buck Algonquin Sailboat Struts
Getting the specifics of your strut

• Size,
• diameter of shaft
• Shaft angle
• etc

Then talking with a prop/strut shop could give you insight.

 

[Arrigo666]

Exactly... I spoke with Buck Algonquin.... Who are the original foundery for S2... They have been sold... And they require a part number... I have looked closely and the only marking on the strut are S2 9 2..... So I was hoping to connect with someone who might have a part number... Or a lead

 

[jssailem]

Maybe there is a more senior person in the shop that may remember. I'd probably call back and ask if there are any old guys from before the buyout who might have a clue to the part.

Failing that as a solution, you are left with identifying the strut by size and shape then seeking a close match. I would think the critical points are the ones I mentioned.

• Length beneath the hull
• The strut to hull connection
• The diameter of the shaft hole and cutlass bearing fit
• the angle of the prop shaft and match to the strut

Just off the top of my head.

 

[Arrigo666]

I know exactly what you mean... When I spoke with Tiara.. They said everyone connected with S2 is long gone... I would love to make a contact inside Buck Algonquin... They made 500 of this model... Someone must know this boat...

 

[fstbttms]

...my current strut got eaten by electrolysis...