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I need to replace the rivets for the boom gooseneck (very loose).
Should I use Aluminum or Stainless rivets?
Is holding power better with Stainless?
Are dissimilar metals a factor?

The factory gooseneck is riveted on with stainless rivets. Everything else on the boat is aluminum rivets. I presume they wouldn't have have done this if it wasn't important.

Dissimilar metals are a factor, but since the mast is aluminum and the gooseneck is stainless, this problem exists one way or the other.

I used aluminium rivets on my loose footed mainsail's outhaul and they pulled out in 20 knots of breeze, they are now stainless and have survived a 25 knot blow. For what that’s worth

Use Monel rivets and it is always good to use a corrosion inhibitor paste such as this product http://www.eckcorrosion.com/products.php

Cheers, Dennis.

Another option is stainless self tapping hex head screws.

I use Monel as well.

Thanks, I will have to see if I can get Monel...I thought you were not supposed to use screws into the mast because of lack of strength..after "tapping" it would really only be held in with Aluminum threads

I used two Stainless Steel bolts, nuts and washers. I bent the bolt in an open U shape and fed it through where the rivets were. Seems to hold up very well with no slop, and for several years so far.

Tru bolts stainless are best way to go and use plastic washers.
Takes a long arm and tool to get at those nuts inside the mast.
Stainless steel expension bolts also work well.
Monel rivits has same degrade as Stainless Steel in salt water.
Dave

Erik Hardtle wrote:I used two Stainless Steel bolts, nuts and washers. I bent the bolt in an open U shape and fed it through where the rivets were. Seems to hold up very well with no slop, and for several years so far.