Tapping cam adjuster threads?

Hi, the other day I decided to recondition the lower castings/cam assembly. Even after I was told "If it works leave it alone". Im the type that repairs what is not broken to make it better, besides one of the cams had way to much preasure on it and could break any time now.

I tried using heat and melting a large flat head screwdriver into the derlin screw. The screwdriver blade broke off after twisting with vice grip pliers. Then I took a 5/8" wood padle bit and cut through the screw removing it along with the spring and plunger.

Now I need to clean out the threads to install a new screws etc and be able to adjust as I wish. I was thinking of getting some large but short S/S allen set screws instead of the derlin screws to avoid sticking. Besides an allen tool will grip much better than a thin flat head on a plastic screw.

What size thread tap should I get to clean out the threads??

thanks!

Check this thread (no pun intended)
http://www.hobiecat.com/community/viewtopic.php?t=1109

I would probably avoid using a stainless set screw. Stainless and Aluminum don't get along very well and there is a strong chance that they will corrode togeather and be more difficult to remoive than the Delrin screw. If you really need to make adjustments I would reccommend using teflon tape (like when you do plumbing projects) on the screw. Just check to make sure it has not backed out after each sail.

_________________
Nick

Current Boat
In the market
Previous boats owned
'74 Pearson 30
'84 H16
'82 H18 Magnum
St. Louis, MO

Ok so the threads are 3/4" diameter and 10 threads per inch.
Now has anyone acualy been able to replace the assembly like Im doing and be able to adjust the derling screw with no problem??

thanks!

I have not had to replace he assembly, but my delrin screw moves just fine.

_________________
Nick

Current Boat
In the market
Previous boats owned
'74 Pearson 30
'84 H16
'82 H18 Magnum
St. Louis, MO