seized pistons spinnaker pole

[Neptunes Violin]

Hey guys:

The piston-type connectors on each end of the spinnaker pole are jammed. (The previous owner did it, not me.) I have been told to "make sure I don't use the wrong lubricant".

What is the correct way to get them working freely? Do I have to buy new end fittings?

thanks again

NV

[Ian McColgin]

I don't know what "wrong lubricant" means. Assuming it's just siezed, not bent, I'd start with some good penetrating oil. Then maybe some heat and a little tapping and pulling on the end that sticks out to hold the eye the trip line attaches to. Once it's moving easily and cleaned out, you might keep it free with anhydrous lanolin, lithium grease or even Mystery Oil. But, you know, kerosene or motor oil or most anything will do it.

If you can get some good shark oil . . .

G'luck

[Brian Duff]

forespar composite ends are plastic so be sure the oils you use are plastic safe.

some other pole ends have plastic sleeves on the piston.

T-9 is a safe lube for metal parts near plastic

[Neptunes Violin]

Thanks all.

Very helpful. I went to Forespar site. They say to flush the fittings with fresh water after exposure to salt water. They also say lubricant is a bad idea as it may attract dirt, BUT, they do not say how to free a stuck piston.

I found another site which said to use vinegar. Stick the pole end in a pail of vinegar and let it sit over night, then try to work it free. So thats what I will try.

I think the key is to get it working with any kind of solvent/lubricant then rinse the whole thing really well. I will let you know how it worked out.

Thanks again

NV

[RoyB]

When I had the same problem I removed the end fitting from the pole and soaked it overnight in a 1:2 vinegar / water solution and then flushed it for quite a while with fresh water.

Worked like a charm. If this doesn't work then make sure there isn't any visible damage or suspect wear on the pin (in case a worn-in ridge or similar is hanging up on a softer plastic bit).

I've found that most things on boats that are exposed to the elements work better with fresh water washes than with any kind of lube. The exceptions on our boat are masthead sheaves that seem to like lanolin grease and the hydraulic backstay cylinder that swoons over a wipe with an oiled rag.

p.s. - be careful with the pin. If yours is spring loaded like mine it will smash or remove a finger pretty easily if inadvertently triggered.

[Brian Duff]

good stuff ... maybe we should be keeping vinegar in the shop ?