Rust and Leaks 2 separate issues

[MACHAYA21]

On my new RT23 (5 month old) I have 2 issues. The base of cockpit stanchions are getting a rusty appearance and some weep rust. Is this 316 Chinese SS ? Remedy other than constant polishing?
Problem #2
A leak coming in through the push button starboard light in the cabin next to the port window. Only occurs during certain rains. When hosed no leaks. Today when the remnants of Hurricane Michael came through, there was a minor leak. On a dry day when hosed full force at different angles,no leak? Any suggestions short of taking a 1 1/2 hour trip to the dealer.

 

[Red Raven]

On my new RT23 (5 month old) I have 2 issues. The base of cockpit stanchions are getting a rusty appearance and some weep rust. Is this 316 Chinese SS ? Remedy other than constant polishing?

This is a regular complaint on this site. I have no idea about where the stainless steel was made and whether it is 316 but trust me, all stainless steel will do this to some extent. The name “stainless” should be “less stain”! 😀 When deprived of oxygen it will rust! But just a little! Check the stainless frame of your bimini under the canvas where there is little oxygen. Rust stains!

The good news is a regular rub with Collinite Metal Wax or equivalent will take care of it. To get in the cracks use a toothbrush or even a toothpick. Trust me you be rewarded! I have found that the weeping is more significant when the boat it new and hasn’t had a good cleaning and treatment of wax. It seems to me the rust stains are reduced with each application.

Don’t worry. Do an annual maintenance and enjoy the boat!

Curt

 

[MACHAYA21]

Curt,
Appreciate your reply. Have waxed stainless often, guess more necessary.

 

[Brian B]

Davis FSR makes the stains disappear.

https://www.amazon.com/FSR-Davis-Fiberg ... Q8ZA6EQ44F

 

[trailertrawlerkismet]

I’ve had this issue on our R29S. When looking at the underside of the swim platform the washers seem to be the culprit, therefore I’m thinking this is where the rust is originating from. I think I’m going to replace a couple of the washers with a higher grade one and test it out. Additionally the rust seems to be much worse in salt water then fresh water. CLR tooth brushed around the swim platform rails cleans the surface rust away, then wax.

Jim