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Top Tips: Caring for the stainless steel hardware on your boat

 

As experts in marine stainless steel fabrication in Auckland, we understand the importance of maintaining your boat’s stainless steel hardware to ensure it stays functional and looks pristine.

A few months ago, the team at Gulf Harbour Marina invited us to share our top care tips with berth holders, helping them protect their stainless steel fittings from the harsh marine environment. Below, you’ll find the practical advice we provided—perfect for keeping your boat’s stainless steel in top condition.

We hope you find it as useful as they did!

At Firefish Fabrication, we share your love for boating and the need to care for the stainless steel components on your vessels. In the boating world, 316 marine-grade stainless steel is the go-to material due to its corrosion and saltwater resistance. At Firefish Fabrication, we work with it more regularly than any other metal. However, despite its toughness, even 316 stainless steel benefits from proper maintenance. Regular care can extend the life of your stainless components, especially those exposed to the elements. Here are a few tips to keep your stainless steel looking bright and sleek.


Post-Outing Wash Downs
After a trip in saltwater, it’s essential to wash down your boat. Products like Salty Captain, which we connect to the hose, make this task easier by providing a thorough rinse without the need for scrubbing. Don’t forget to rinse the stainless steel on the underside of canopy tops, as these areas are often neglected and can accumulate salt, leading to discoloration. This is also a good time to check for loose or rusted screws and parts, so they can be replaced, fixed, or tightened as needed.

Light Cleaning
For light stains and fingerprints, warm water and mild dishwashing soap usually do the trick. Clean with the grain to avoid scratches, rinse thoroughly, and dry well to prevent water spots. Use a soft cloth, such as microfiber, and avoid abrasive or harsh materials that can damage the stainless steel.

Tough Stains and Restoring Shine
For tougher stains and to restore polish and shine, use a gentle marine-grade cleaner like Autosol. Apply it with a soft cloth and use a good amount of elbow grease. Rub vigorously until the stainless turns black and the cleaner starts to dry, then use a clean cloth to wipe off the residue.

Professional Polishing Options
For a more thorough spruce-up, consider removing the stainless components and having them professionally machine-polished or electro-polished. We are happy to help you work through those options.

Dealing with Pitting
If your stainless steel has pitted or developed surface rust, professional help may be needed. In some cases, the surface can be ground down if the stainless is thick enough. If you encounter this issue, feel free to reach out to us for guidance on the best repair or replacement options.

By following these tips, you can ensure your stainless steel components remain in top condition, extending their life and keeping your boat looking its best.

Firefish Fabrication is your onsite metal fabrication workshop at Gulf Harbour Marina, tucked behind the Brin Wilson shed at 779 Laurie Southwick Parade. We always welcome walk-ins from berth holders and locals.

For inquiries and no obligation, complimentary quotes, please email us on steve@firefishfabrication.co.nz

 

 


Curious to read the entire magazine?
Click below to view now.

Gulf Harbour Marina Newsletter cover. This issue features an article by Firefish Fabrication about caring for your stainless steel marine hardware.


WIN! The Ultimate filleting station with Pacific Powerboat Magazine

 

We’re celebrating five incredible years of Firefish Fabrication by giving you the chance to win an amazing fence-mounted filleting station—because what’s a birthday without presents for you?

This sleek black aluminium filleting station is perfect for mounting to a fence or wall at your home. Its thoughtful design and practical features make it the ultimate addition for any avid angler who needs a practical and good looking space for filleting after a day cleaning up on the water!

Features of the Filleting Station

This premium filleting station, valued at $1650, includes:

  • High-density polyurethane chopping board for effortless filleting.
  • Underneath storage unit to keep your tools and essentials tidy.
  • Separate knife compartment for easy organisation.
  • Double beverage holder, so you can enjoy a drink (or two) while hard at work.
  • Built-in hose connection, ready to attach to your water source for hassle-free cleanup.

Dimensions: 800mm wide x 600mm high x 200mm deep.

It’s the ideal setup to prepare your catch after a successful day out on the water, designed to combine style, function, and durability.

Custom fabrication in Auckland. Filleting station crafted from aluminium.

How to Enter

We’ve teamed up with Pacific PowerBoat Magazine to give away this fantastic filleting station! Simply head over to their Facebook page to enter. Be quick—the winner will be drawn and announced on Friday, 12 July.

Customise Your Filleting Station

If you love this design but think you need something bigger or want a different colour to match your outdoor space, we can help! At Firefish Fabrication, we specialise in custom fabrication, including marine stainless steel solutions and bespoke designs for your unique needs.

Let us bring your ideas to life with a custom filleting station that suits your dimensions, style, and preferences.

Custom fabrication in Auckland. Filleting station crafted from aluminium.

 


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