Life span of steel/galvanized chainplates

[Jak Mang]

How long should these last? Any particular things to look for when inspecting? The ones I have do have surface rust and are 35 years old.

Thanks,
-jak

[Joe Henderson]

Dear Jak,

Any carbon steel component in a yacht's rigging which is 35 years old is getting past it's use-by date. ( Anything made from most other materials too! )

I am tempted to say that the first thing for you to look out for when inspecting is the chainplate whizzing up past your ear as the material lets go!

But, the only way to inspect thoroughly is to remove the fittings from the vessel.

If you have them out then why play about with inspecting? Just go straight to Brions loft and get him to spec/recommend/supply/install new stainless/bronze/titanium items. ( See various threads on this very subject. )

The old rusted chainplates make nice black museum exhibits.

The cost of new chainplates is miniscule compared to the cost of any collateral damage/loss if a chainplate fails.

Regards,

Joe.