Internal "I" frame surface rust treatment - Swan 40

[Coombesie]

Hi There
We have recently bought a 1994 Swan 40 Frers Designed 40/101.

We found and surveyor confirmed that whilst appearing (without removal of table, batteries, fuel tanks etc) solid enough - there is a fair amount of surface rust on the I frames too which keel is bolted and Mast stepped that need to be cleaned off, treated (appears cannot do the deal and remove the I beam without enlarging cabin opening or chopping up the ends of the beam -so shot blast repair if necessary, hot Dip Galv and replace isn't an option.

Plan is we (no one funnily enough appears to want to do tis sub $10K Aus) strip out and physically then chemically treat as much metal work as we can get to - then coat / paint and replace all instal dehumidifier and try and keep dry for as long as possible - until eventually replace likely with a Epoxy replacement once more readily availably (as per Swan S&S fourm)

Has anyone done this or got alternative advise?

much appreciated

IC s/v Fontana

[neilpride]

Humm, how bad is the rust, if it is superficial or falls off in sheets?

Plan A is the most logical in the long run, but as you say it involves lowering the mast and butchering inside.

Plan B if the rust is superficial as you say would be to get out of the way by treating it chemically.

If you don't want to get into an expensive project go to plan B.

[Coombesie]

Many thanks !
its not coming off in sheets - as mentioned surveyor said more than enough metal integrity. Those Finns seemed to over engineer which is pleasing!

An insitu job is not ideal but by taking out both fuel tanks along the side of main beam and table and batteries off once mast out (rigging has to be replaced) we will have at least 75% of the surfaces exposed. hoping that if the bottom long section along and bolted to the keel is tight and air tight hopefully there will be minimal rust.
We shall see!