Last year I noticed a crack in the bulkhead that extends out from the starboard chainplate approx 1-1/2 inches out. Fearing a saturated bulkhead and a major structural problem, I removed the chainplate this spring. There was certainly some major staining from water but I was surprised and releived to learn that the bulkhead was dry. With an awl, we probed each bolt hole and determined the bulkhead to be solid and dry.
Regardless, the crack is severe and goes completely thru the bulkhead. it propogates from the top inner bolt hole traversing slightly up and outward.
We will, of course grind out and fiberglass the crack on both sides. But further, we now have an oversized chainplate designed along with a matching backup plate. The oversized plate will carry additonal bolts and we hope, spread the load over a greater area of the bulkhead. Don't know what caused the crack other than sheer load on the shrouds so we're hoping the larger chainplate will add some strength and let us feel better in any severe weather situations
The oversized chainplate was drawn up in Solid Works and thus it is availabelin in a solid model and in 2D. If anyone is interested and wants a copy, let me know
