Living For Sail · video

What this video covers

To evaluate and repair embedded backing plates for deck hardware, remove the existing fasteners and inspect them for corrosion or thread damage.5:24 When fasteners spin or show signs of rust, test the backing plate material to determine the appropriate repair method.7:15 Use a stack of neodymium magnets to rule out mild steel, then perform a continuity test with a multimeter to confirm the plate is metallic.8:34 If the plate is stainless steel, shavings collected during drilling will show magnetic attraction.11:18

For damaged threads in embedded plates, options include installing a thread repair kit, such as Recoil, or drilling and tapping the hole to the next bolt size.11:57 Increasing a 5/16-inch hole to 3/8-inch allows for a fresh, secure thread foundation.12:50 When tapping, use tapping fluid and frequently back the tap out to clear debris and prevent breakage.13:28 Pre-drilling the fiberglass laminate to the final tap size preserves the tap's cutting edges.14:25 Testing the repaired hole with a torque wrench confirms the integrity of the new threads.15:34

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