I know this question gets asked every time a new batch of aluminum boat owners comes around. I've searched and found LOTS of answers, but most of them were uneducated answers or answers from people that have not used their boats in saltwater.
What is the best fastener material to use for aluminum boats? I know it depends on what and where it is being fastened. The reason that I ask this is that I work for a fastener supplier. I can get my hands on all kinds of neat stuff! haha We mostly specialize small stainless fasteners for the medical industry as well as your standard grade 5 and grade 8 steel bolts. But we also carry some galvanized stuff, nylon (yes nylon bolts and such) as well as bronze, brass, copper, aluminum, and even titanium.
While restoring my Mariner, I plan to reconstruct everything that I can with aluminum rivets. Do I need to use the ones with steel or stainless shafts? Also, what is best to use for stuff that NEEDS to be screwed into the hull. Stuff like transducers, trim tabs, deck hardware etc. I will use aluminum screws where I can, but strength can be an issue with deck hardware and trim tabs. I've seen where people use stainless and coat it with 5200 or gluvit. But I'm just trying to find what the BEST faster is. Because I can probably get it.
What is the best fastener material to use for aluminum boats? I know it depends on what and where it is being fastened. The reason that I ask this is that I work for a fastener supplier. I can get my hands on all kinds of neat stuff! haha We mostly specialize small stainless fasteners for the medical industry as well as your standard grade 5 and grade 8 steel bolts. But we also carry some galvanized stuff, nylon (yes nylon bolts and such) as well as bronze, brass, copper, aluminum, and even titanium.
While restoring my Mariner, I plan to reconstruct everything that I can with aluminum rivets. Do I need to use the ones with steel or stainless shafts? Also, what is best to use for stuff that NEEDS to be screwed into the hull. Stuff like transducers, trim tabs, deck hardware etc. I will use aluminum screws where I can, but strength can be an issue with deck hardware and trim tabs. I've seen where people use stainless and coat it with 5200 or gluvit. But I'm just trying to find what the BEST faster is. Because I can probably get it.