seized pistons spinnaker pole

[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 ?

[Stumble]

Using vinegar to clean almost anything exposed to salt water works very well. Particularly when the problem area is small hard to get too parts like springs, or internal components. I would assume any acid would work, but the advantage of vinegar is that it is relatively cheap, easy to find, and mild enough that it won't etch metal or attack components.

Just ask any avid SCUBA diver about rincing equipment with the stuff.

[Auspicious]

Distilled white vinegar is my initial cleaning solution of choice. It works pretty well, especially if you have time to soak things. 1 and 2 gallon jugs of the stuff are available at most warehouse stores.

Not a rigging application, but if shower heads start to clog up from mineral deposits an overnight soak will return them to like-new condition.

I soaked rags in vinegar and wrapped them around salt-caked turnbuckles for several hours. A fresh water flush cleaned everything off, allowing them to be backed off, further cleaned, lubed, and reassembled.

Are there issues with acid and stainless?

[Brian Duff]

Okay Okay, I put Vinegar on our order list !

[Stumble]

A bit of a thread hijack, but while some high streingth acids can etch or destroy stainless, most SS cleaners are a dilute form of acid. In my experience, I have never seen vinager have any effect other than help remove corrosion and salt residue, but a chemist would have to be the one to discuss wether is has any corrosive effect.

So I think the trick is to just make sure the muratic stuff stays away and you will be fine.

[knothead]

Does anyone else use Ospho for soaking rusty stainless?

Sorry if that's a hijack.

[Neptunes Violin]

I said I would let you know if it worked.

...

It worked!

Soaked the end of the pole for a day or two. It was really seized up. Had to use a hammer to move the pin back and forth and then suddenly the pin was free and working smoothly.

Now for the other end ....

cheers