.... which invariably leads to the question of which sealant/bonding agent to use for the interface between the stainless hardware and the fiberglass deck?

There was an argument made a while ago about butyl tape (black or white) and it's merits of flexibility and resistance to drying/rotting. It had no adhesive abilities, but that is not necessary in situations where you've got something bolted through-deck.

But the epoxy bedding of through-deck fittings (hollow out the core material in the deck, fill with thickened epoxy, and re-drill the hole) is golden advice. Adds strength to that area as well as (according to your article) reduce chance of core moisture absorption..

Check your shroud base attachments and bridle bases at the hull Forrest. That's about the only place you might find crevice corrosion on your boat.

There seemed to be enough air circulation in the stern for the rudder bolts and beam bolts that I didn't notice any corrosion when I changed them after about 10 years..


Jay