Chainplate to below waterline?

[alkites2]

Hello. In the process of replacing buried-in-the-laminate chainplates with external ugly-but-strong "strapping". Anyone ever extend center chainplate to below waterline for very low resistance lightning path? Thoughts? Any and all input appreciated. And yes, of course I know it won't be pretty.

[Orion Jim]

Interesting question. I think the ugly factor would be too much to bear on a daily basis. I'd go conventional. I'm bonded to one plate on the keel.

[barnakiel]

On many boats the stemhead fitting is built this way.

Remember some theories have it that if you build a path, the current will follow. And so some owners elect not to have such mast to water leads.

b.

[Boatyarddog]

Don't use your mast as a ground, it can cause excessive electrolysis on dissimilar metals attached to the mast.
Use a sinter plate attached to the hull, below the waterline.


Sent from my iPad SV Cloud Duster

[anacapaisland42]

I would be worried about lightning blowing out the chainplate thus a big hole BELOW the waterline
Bill

[anacapaisland42]

I was wondering about heavy duty jumper cables attached when required to backstay/forestay and loose end dropped into water
Bill

[Orion Jim]

Originally Posted by anacapaisland42

I would be worried about lightning blowing out the chainplate thus a big hole BELOW the waterline
Bill

I have a bonding system connected to a sintered metal plate attached to my keel. The system is designed to bleed the charge into the water rather than blow a hole through the hull in the vicinity of the plate. I think the chainplate would, in theory, provide the same protection. Doing nothing is asking for trouble at some point. Been struck once and hope to not see it happen again.