How well does Zamak plated parts hold up?

[Mark42]

I need new single shank bow eyes for bow and stern on my MFG. I ordered a set and to my surprise there was a sticker on the package stating that the Zamak finish was not guaranteed when exposed to salt water and that pitting may occur. <br /><br />Does the Zamak finish really corrode under salt water use? I find it hard to believe that a manufacturer of boat hardware makes a boat part that will fail when exposed to salt. I plan to return them.<br /><br />Mark

 

[Chris1956]

Re: How well does Zamak plated parts hold up?

Believe it Mark, Zamak will last a year ot two in salt water, if you take care of it(wax it up).<br /><br />Stainless Steel lasts much better, but costs much better!

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: How well does Zamak plated parts hold up?

If you can return them do so and get stainless.If you are stuck with them then give them a coat of penetrol or spray with clear coat or wipe them down with oil or lube once every week or two to make them last.Charlie

 

[cp]

Re: How well does Zamak plated parts hold up?

Return them! Get the stainless. Zamak will not just pit in salt water, it will slowly turn to powder . Along the way to becoming powder it will lose strength, crack, and break into pieces. For some unimaginable reason my old boat came with zamak tees on the stainless railings, and what I've described is what happened to me . Think about it...zamak is a zinc alloy and we all know what zincs are used for in corrosion protection and what happens to those 'sacrificial' zincs. You sure don't want those as bow or stern eyes where you'll be pulling weight with them .

 

[Mark42]

Re: How well does Zamak plated parts hold up?

Thanks for the warnings! I think I'll just have the old hardware re-plated.<br /><br />Mark.

 

[Terry H]

Re: How well does Zamak plated parts hold up?

Mark...take your old ones to a plating shop...just a thought