Chain Plate Replacement on IP 35

I recently worked with Colin Mack of Mack Yacht Services in Stuart, Florida to replace the chain plates on my 1990 Island Packet 35, SeaEagle.  Colin and his crew were outstanding and did an excellent job.  Communication, organization, workmanship, professionalism, and timeliness matter in today's world and Mack Yacht Services earned a five star rating in each area.  They also identified and repaired several other unknown problems with my boat.  A special commendation is also provided to Josh Forma who was the lead supervisor of the repairs to SeaEagle.  He reached out on numerous occasions to clarify concerns and made certain I was satisfied with the outcomes.  I strongly recommend Mack Yacht Services to all Island Packet owners who want quality service at reasonable rates.  Well done Colin Mack and crew! 

John Poidevant
SV SeaEagle, IP 35

Hello John,
Thanks for recommending Mack Yacht Services, Can you tell me whet the condition of your old chain plates were like on removal? I have an IP38 (1988)
Thanks,
Ross

I second what John has said. Last year I had Colin replace the chainplates on my 1997 IP37. He took photos and discussed the state of the old plates with me. In summary, they may have lasted a year longer. You could clearly see the cracks beginning to form across the plate. My response: I would rather replace early than have a mast come crashing down, deal with the mess and then get denied on a claim with insurance company because proper maintenance was not done.
Some other points to consider. It is virtually impossible to see if your chainplates are damaged due to the way they were originally glassed in. I used a scope with video and pictures and it was difficult to ascertain state. It depends to a large extent on the maintenance of the section where the chainplates exit to the top of the deck. What has been learned is that 5200 (the original bedding compound used) does not adhere fully to stainless steel. If someone had dug out the 5200 and replaced with a product like GE Silproof and regular maintenance, then salt water impregnation is less likely. Additionally, some years ago there was an article on drilling small weep holes to allow moisture/water to drain from around the chainplates would reduce the chance of rust. Remember, Stainless Steel with salt water and no oxygen is where rust forms.
My two Cents. Mac McDermid IP37 1997 "Hamba Kahle"