Tightening keel bolts
Question:

When tightening keel bolts, is it recommended to "break" or loosen each one before torquing, or just go ahead and torque to the spec? Is it OK to use a small amount of Silicroil in advance?

I read an earlier post in which Lars suggested using mastic as a thread lubricant, seems that would mean taking the nut all the way off.

Thanks,

TonyH 44 04 Hatha

Tony
Keel bolt nuts can usually be expected to turn a little when torqued, and if they do there is no need to loosen them first.
Only for nuts which do not move when the specified torque is applied the recommendation is to "break" or loosen them 1/8 turn before tightening again.
Nuts which do not move either way have probably seized (galled) and lubrication and loving care is needed to make them move.
If there are lock nuts they have to be opened before attempting to torque the locked nut.

Lubrication of the threads will increase the bolt clamping force achieved with a specified torque, and can be recommended particularly for stainless materials to compensate for their higher friction coefficient.

The comment about mastic as lubricant was intended to inform that it is not detrimental if mastic gets into the threads as long as the nut is tightened while the mastic is uncured.
Best regards
Lars

Thanks Lars