stainless steel screws and aluminum

[geedubcpa]

Actually the boat isnt that bad but the wood flooring needs replaced - my question is about the rivets - the rivets go through the wood to the bracing underneath - is there any alternatives to rivets when putting down the new wood - If I go with rivets what kind and where to buy them?

gw

 

[geedubcpa]

stainless steel screws and aluminum

Is it ok to use stainless steel screws to secure my new flooring - It has had rivets of some sort on the original - what is the best method for a DIY

 

[Mark42]

Re: stainless steel screws and aluminum

I take it this is for an aluminum boat? If so, try to use aluminum screws. Stainless and aluminum will cause corrosion eventually, especially in salt or brackish water. If you have to, order screws online. There are a number of fastener suppliers that will carry them.

 

[erikgreen]

Re: stainless steel screws and aluminum

Instead of aluminum screws, consider using aluminum rivets... you can get them at most hardware stores and they work with either the manual pop rivet type guns or pneumatic guns.

I presume you're talking about wood flooring, which would probably also need washers or strapping to spread the load on the rivets out a bit.

You CAN use stainless screws, and unless your deck gets soaked in water regularly they'll last a long time. Basically you have to avoid the situation where the stainless screws contacting the aluminum structure gets and stays wet. Are you planning on applying sealant to each and every screw?

Erik

 

[wrfalpacas]

Re: 1981 starcraft project boat

Re: 1981 starcraft project boat

GW,

I would reccomend rivets, as there is no chance for a galvonic reaction with aluminum/aluminum contact. Use non pressure treated exposure 1 plywood and you can get the rivets here:

http://www.mcmaster.com/#97447a095/=2fixbw

Use the wide head type (.650) and 3/16 dia shaft, just pick your grip range!

 

[APPALOOSA2]

Re: 1981 starcraft project boat

Re: 1981 starcraft project boat

Bret is correct and you can drill new holes for your rivets. Just mark where the braces are so you can chalk line your wood and know where to drill.

Screws will loosen over time and the rivets will not.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: 1981 starcraft project boat

Re: 1981 starcraft project boat

Use Rivets and buy them local. No sense in ordering rivets that are available from a neighborhood store and it keeps your neighbors working.

Squirt some 3m5200 in every hole you drill just before you snap the rivet to seal off the freshly drilled exposed wood.

Be certain to use a drill stop or you will drill through your hull.