Swim ladder question

[pateco]

I am getting rust stains running down my transom from the swim ladder.

All hardware is stainless steel.What could be causing this?

Also wondering, since it is 1" tube, if I put a 1" zinc shaft anode on it, would that help stop this rust?

 

[jon hansen]

not all stainless is created equally

 

[kloudie1]

Caution: the attaching screws/bolts may be corroding where they are under the flange .. Would be good to remove the ladder and install new bolts. Seal 'em well with Maine Sail's butyl tape .. Looks like the "stagnant water" corrosion which can happen to all stainless.

 

[The Shadow Knows]

Jon,

Many stainless steel bolts/nuts & washers are grade 304. This has more carbon in the mix. 316 stainless has less carbon that will not show the rust that like 304 will. Same goes for your rigging & swage fittings. If you see rust at these connections, your cable is most likely 304. The same can be said for your lifelines.

Over the years, I've changed out alot of these to 316 ss.

 

[jon hansen]

i know that all stainless will rust.
saltwater is tough on metal
is it not that there is more nickel which in turn means less carbon , in the blend
also there are manufactures that have poor quality control, maybe just dont care

 

[capta]

A zinc will do you no good out of the water. Even with part time immersion on something like a ladder a zinc would be a waste.
It looks as though your problems are from the bolts attaching the ladder. Replace them with 316 SS, or just buy some Ospho and follow the directions to remove the rust. If these bolts are 304 and not 316, you should replace them anyway, because the rust is the least of the problems that may be developing and they may fail.

 

[sailnoproblem]

I agree that your fasteners are 304 and not 316. To make matters worst the bolts, nuts and washers are must likely from China. Try to purchase the new 316 fasteners from a reputable outlet. I have to think that West Marine would be a good start.
Also your ladder is 1'SS tube. O.S. dia. is 1".