Spreader Base Corrosion Question

[Mike Raehl]

The starboard spreader on my new Typhoon Weekender is corroded to the spreader base. The PO tried to work it loose with a pipe wrench, left deep jaw marks in the spreader tube and deformed it slightly. I would like to get things right before I step the mast. Any suggestions on a method or product to dissolve the corrosion so I can replace the spreader? Since I will buy a new spreader anyway, should I just cut off the old one at the base and muscle out the stub in the spreader base? Looks like the bolt thru the mast prevents removing the spreader bases while either spreader is in place.

Mike Raehl
Ty #1958 Roberta Jane II
Piermont, NY



mikeraehl@telocity.com

[Serge Zimberoff]

I think it best to cut it with 3" stub sticking out. Then using an adjustible pliers just collapse it near the mount. Once freed of 1/3 or so of contact, the remaining stub will let you put a small amount of wiggle plus torque on it to turn it out.
Serge
Ty #1700 'Cloning Around'



serge@srtrop.com

[sloopjohnl]

assuming yours is the same as mine, the spreader end slides over the spreader base attached to the mast? you insert a pin thru the spreader and base and secure the pin with a cotter pin or ring? the spreader is aluminum and the base is stainless. you should be able to put a saw cut in the spreader with a hacksaw blade or sawzall on a diagonal with the length of the base. then with a small sharp cold chisel open up the saw cut and try to break the spreader free. if not keep chiseling until it is off. you should be able to save the spreader base this way, just remember to use some never seize when reinstalling the new spreader.

The starboard spreader on my new Typhoon Weekender is corroded to the spreader base. The PO tried to work it loose with a pipe wrench, left deep jaw marks in the spreader tube and deformed it slightly. I would like to get things right before I step the mast. Any suggestions on a method or product to dissolve the corrosion so I can replace the spreader? Since I will buy a new spreader anyway, should I just cut off the old one at the base and muscle out the stub in the spreader base? Looks like the bolt thru the mast prevents removing the spreader bases while either spreader is in place.

Mike Raehl
Ty #1958 Roberta Jane II
Piermont, NY

[Mike Raehl]

Sloopjohnl / Serge, Thanks for the advice. I'll use Serge's suggestion since it is consistent with the spreader base configuration on my Ty. The spreader inserts into a socket in the base and is held with a single cotter pin. The bases are held to the mast with a single through bolt with the head and nut inside the base sockets and inside the spreader ends.

Mike Raehl
Ty #1958 Roberta Jane II
Piermont, NY

mikeraehl@telocity.com

[JimL]

I've seen it loosen corroded parts when oils and solvents wouldn't work. Also, you can dissolve the white aluminum corrosion with Mag Wheel cleaner (the type containing phosphoric acid). Phosphoric acid is what puts the "bite" in our soft drinks (such as Coca Cola, Pepsi, etc.)



leinfam@eartlink.net