Rivets

I'm installing a new mast tang on my H16. I removed the old rivets and casings and the damaged tang. Anyone know if the 3/16' rivets and casings can be replaced with 1/4" rivets sans casings? Of course, the holes would have to be enlarged on both the mast and the new tang but I would think that the overall strength and reliability would be better. (?) Anyone know exactly what those casings add to the attachment?

http://www.saltydogmarine.com/product_i ... 9c2a6ec822

This sums it up nicely..

I would think one might get the same watertightness with a good shot of marine silicone or urethane sealant - first coating the rivet and then injected through the hole...
I still like the larger 1/4" rivets with the holes drilled out - since the mast holes are somewhat corroded anyway.

Since the tang is some 20 feet up... the holes through rivets have a lot of pressure on them when inverted under water. That and the fact that silicone fails after a few years. Caps are best. Maybe epoxy would work though.

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Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

Get yourself a HEAVY DUTY rivet gun. I ruined a decent one trying to set SS rivets when I replaced my main halyard cleat.

I have a yellow and white Stanley rivet setter..I think it was noted as a marine grade one or something like that. Cost about 40 bucks.

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'77- H16(30804)

Here's the one you want:

http://www.harborfreight.com/heavy-duty ... 66422.html

Changed riveting for me for good and at $20 you can't complain.

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'81 H16

If it ain't a blowin', I ain't a goin'