if the prob isnt comimg from the fixings, then you should talk to the supplier.
as for the nylon backing plates i would ( imho) used s/s or ali plates to spread the loads. i.e something that wont compress
Just curious but what is "proper marine grade" stainless steel
I always understood the "304" grade was fine above the waterline with 316 being preferred for below the waterline (actually I prefer bronze or K500 monel but what do I know - I am only a metallurgist) I have never thought of either 304 or 316 as "proper marine grade" and I certainly would not recommend any of the 400 series as suitable for manufacture of fixings which would be subject to a marine environment.
316 is usually classed as marine grade. There are lots of grades of stailess that could be so classed, but since you can commonly only get fasteners in 304 or 316, then 316 is the marine grade one of the two.
<hr width=100% size=1>this post is a personal opinion, and you should not base your actions on it.
SS Scrrews are commonly classified as A2(grade 304) or A4 (grade 316) A4 is better than A2 and only slightly more expensive. However will your average pkt of screws bought from your local swinderly know what it is? I don't think so!
<hr width=100% size=1>dickh
I'd rather be sailing... /forums/images/icons/smile.gif