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They are Phillips round head, #10 x 1/2", self tapping. I would strongly recommend you get them from CMI Marine, which has the later ones with the plastic lock bushing on them. Pan head non-self tapping can also be used if the threads are still good in the SS rail. Locktite can also be added to the assembly, particualrly if threads are somewhat stripped in the rails.
Another alternative for the Tee's is to buy the new style in SS, by Sea Dog, Whitecap, Specialty Marine or West Marine, which have compression Allen screws instead of threaded screws. They actually hold better, and will never fail.
Finnegan: I searched both West and Specialty for compression Allen screws and found nothing. I am thinking they be best for a railing hot dog assembly. Where can I find them? Thanks.
Dggriffin369: Are you asking what type of screw to use to attach the side rails into the boat? If so, I use size 10X1 Oval Phillips stainless steel metal screws. I bought a box of 100 at Ace hardware, item #823692, so I always have spares. Be sure that the short horizontal stanchion is in the stern; and screw into the wood-backing interior gunwale areas. The wood substrate on a 16 blue hull is usually visible in sunlight, that is, for both the side rail locations, as well as the bowrail horizontal stanchion base mounting locations.
Regarding rail t-fittings, when I have to upgrade the fittings, I use the hotdog stainless method and the round-head screws with lock bushings, which I always buy from Fred Caldwell or Shawn at CMI Marine, South Weymouth, MA., tel 781-740-1260. If you call Fred on or about the 4th of May, wish him a happy birthday.
Finally, 2 years ago I bought a pair of brand new 16 blue hull fit stainless steel side rails (Nauset Marine, Orleans, MA. $455.) with allen head t-fittings and even though I tightened them, I found more than one allen head screw laying on the deck after a rough ride out on Cape Cod Bay. I also do not like how the allen head screws leave just enough head protruding from the t-fitting that can gash your skin if you rub up against it.
