a4 stainless and bronze

[ray275]

I removed rotted rubbing strake? and propose to replace with oak topped with larch and iroko. Existing fixings 6" iron bolts well rusted. Propose to replace with A4 stainless rod,same size. Any or what reaction with all the new silicone bronze screws and some iron nails (nails are good not to be disturbed)
Do I remove completetly the rusted bolts? All donations -advices welcome!
Ps Nobody told me what I was about to take on, all just asked if I required Swan Vestas matches and did I have a container for the petrol!

 

[ccscott49]

Remove rusted bolts and replace with bronze. I always use bronze if I can afford it. If you use stainless and the iron nails are galvanised, they are likely to start rusting. IMHO

 

[Peterduck]

Definitley remove the rusted steel bolts if you can. They expand when they rust and can sometimes be immovable while at the same time time having no strength. I would be more inclined to replace the bolts with copper rod, on which I would form a conical head using a plumber's flaring tool. You can't do this with bronze. Copper has a tensile strength which is similar to mild steel. Also beware of which bronze rod you are buying. "Manganese bronze" is really just a brass, and will lose its strength very quickly due to de-zincification. Cutting a thread on bronze rod can also be a "character-building" exercise.
Peter.