SS Stanchions

[Nidri240]

I have a couple of stanchions which I am in the process of repairing. In a past ownership they have obviously been in contact with a wall or other boat as they are both bent. They are each a single fabrication of stainless which comprises of a tube welded on to an angle bracket. This bracket bolts through the deck vertically and the (aluminium) toe rail horizontally. The right angle brackets are bent from whatever hit the boat. There is no damage to the deck or toe rail, but I need to straighten out the stanchions / bases.

Does anyone have any advice to offer about straightening stainless steel? Should I heat it first or just go for it?

Any advice welcome!

Giles

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[mirabriani]

I have a similar problem. I really cannot imagine how it occured!
Instinct tells me it would be best to remove it first
I look forward to seeing other peeps advice from thereon.
Regards Briani

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[pvb]

Maybe not a DIY job?

Whenever I've tried to do anything with stainless steel, I've found it a fairly difficult material. The guy I've used to make odd SS fabrications has all sorts of strange bits of machinery in his workshop, and I think your repair might need something more specialised than DIY equipment.

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[Aardee]

Giles,

Are the originals definitely welded??. Generally the stanchions simply slot into separate bases, although over time they can effectively "weld" together due to the miracles of metallurgy & salt water.

New S/S stanchions are readily available & only 25 quid a throw (I've just replaced 2 of mine following a wee accident...). I'd rather spend the money & know they are OK than risk weakening them through repair.

Eurospars in Plymouth seem to stock a huge range of stanchions & bases and come recommended.

Graham.


<hr width=100% size=1>"I am a bear of very little brain and long words bother me" - A A Milne.

 

[scarlett]

I was lucky and you might be too.

I put an SS stachion in the socket nearest the halyard winch, but turned through 180 degrees. Tied a line to the top and slowly winched it in. The stanchion had a 20 degree bend in it and now you cannot see that it is not perfect.

Free and worth a try if your socket is up to it.

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[Nidri240]

Thanks for the advice.

I "had a go" with the stanchions last night. I removed them from the boat and made a jig (2 pieces of steel bar) which they were bolted to in a similar way to how they are on the boat. Stood on the jig and gently persuaded them into position. They are by no means perfect but are a vast improvement on how they were. I will have some new ones made once the funds have been replenished.

Giles

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