316 Stainless Steel Marine Quick-Release Pin - 1/4 in (6.3 mm) Ball Detent
Designed for compatible marine hardware, this 316 stainless steel marine quick-release pin features a 6.3 mm (approximately 1/4 inch) shaft, an integrated pull ring, and a spring-loaded ball detent for convenient insertion and removal.
Available in three shaft lengths - 48 mm, 51 mm, and 65 mm - this stainless steel detent pin offers a removable fastening option for suitable boat hardware maintenance, adjustment, and replacement. Potential applications include selected bimini top fittings, deck hinges, and jaw slide assemblies designed for compatible pins.
Before ordering, compare the pin diameter, required shaft length, receiving-hole dimensions, and ball-detent clearance with your existing hardware to help ensure a proper fit.
Fitment reminder: A nominal 1/4 inch diameter is approximately 6.35 mm, while this pin is listed as 6.3 mm. Actual fit depends on the receiving-hole diameter, manufacturing tolerances, and required clearance.
Key Features
- 316 Stainless Steel Construction: Made from AISI 316 stainless steel, a material commonly selected for marine hardware where corrosion resistance is important.
- Spring-Loaded Ball Detent: The integrated ball detent helps retain the pin in compatible receiving hardware while allowing removal when required.
- Integrated Pull Ring: Provides a convenient grip for inserting and removing the pin during routine hardware adjustment and maintenance.
- Three Shaft Length Options: Choose from 48 mm, 51 mm, or 65 mm to match the dimensions and engagement requirements of your fitting.
- Versatile Marine Hardware Use: Intended for compatible removable connections, including selected bimini top fittings, deck hinges, and jaw slide assemblies.
Product Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Marine Quick-Release Pin / Ball Detent Pin |
| Material | AISI 316 Stainless Steel |
| Shaft Diameter | 6.3 mm (Approximately 1/4 in) |
| Available Shaft Lengths | 48 mm (1.89 in), 51 mm (2.01 in), 65 mm (2.56 in) |
| Retention Mechanism | Spring-Loaded Ball Detent |
| Handle | Integrated Pull Ring |
| Typical Applications | Compatible Bimini Top Fittings, Deck Hinges, and Jaw Slide Assemblies |
| Availability | Select the Required Length from the Available Variants |
Dimensions are nominal conversions. Confirm the product drawing and the manufacturer's measurement reference before purchase, particularly if shaft length affects the engagement of your existing hardware.
Common Marine Applications
This 1/4 inch stainless steel quick-release pin may be suitable for compatible hardware designed around the correct pin diameter, length, and retention mechanism.
- Selected bimini top fittings and frame hardware
- Compatible boat deck hinges and removable hinge connections
- Jaw slide assemblies and compatible marine frame fittings
- Other marine hardware designed for a compatible 6.3 mm pin
Compatibility is not universal. Confirm the fitting design, hole diameter, required working length, and ball-detent clearance before replacing an existing pin.
Safety Notice: Do not use a general-purpose replacement pin for load-bearing or safety-critical connections unless the pin, receiving hardware, and complete installation have been verified as suitable for the intended application. No working-load rating is specified in the available product information.
How to Choose the Correct Quick-Release Pin
- Measure the Hole Diameter: Confirm that the receiving hole is designed for a 6.3 mm pin with suitable clearance. Do not assume all nominal 1/4 inch fittings have identical dimensions.
- Check the Required Shaft Length: Compare the existing pin or fitting with the 48 mm, 51 mm, and 65 mm options. Confirm how the manufacturer measures shaft length.
- Verify Ball Engagement: Ensure the detent ball can pass through the receiving hole and extend sufficiently to retain the pin as designed.
- Inspect the Existing Hardware: Check for worn holes, deformation, corrosion, or damage that could prevent reliable engagement.
- Confirm the Intended Application: Check the hardware manufacturer's requirements before using the pin in a load-bearing or safety-critical connection.
Maintenance and Inspection
- Rinse with fresh water after saltwater exposure and remove accumulated salt or debris.
- Inspect the shaft, pull ring, spring, and detent ball for wear, deformation, corrosion, or restricted movement.
- Check that the ball detent moves and engages reliably before returning the pin to service.
- Replace the pin if the retention mechanism does not work reliably or any component is damaged.
Although 316 stainless steel offers corrosion resistance, regular maintenance remains important for marine hardware, particularly in saltwater environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a marine quick-release pin used for?
A marine quick-release pin is a removable fastener for compatible hardware where convenient insertion and removal are needed. Depending on the fitting design, applications may include selected bimini top fittings, deck hinges, and jaw slide assemblies.
Is a 6.3 mm pin the same as a 1/4 inch pin?
Not exactly. A 1/4 inch diameter equals 6.35 mm, while this pin is listed as 6.3 mm. The nominal sizes are close, but actual fit depends on manufacturing tolerances, receiving-hole diameter, and required clearance.
Which shaft length should I choose?
Choose the 48 mm, 51 mm, or 65 mm option that matches your fitting and required engagement. Measure your existing pin or hardware and confirm the manufacturer's length measurement reference before ordering.
Will this pin fit every bimini top or deck hinge?
No. It is intended for compatible hardware with matching dimensions and a suitable retention arrangement. Check the fitting requirements and product dimensions before use.
Is 316 stainless steel maintenance-free?
No. Although 316 stainless steel offers good corrosion resistance in many marine environments, salt deposits and surface contamination can still affect its condition. Fresh-water rinsing and periodic inspection are recommended.
Ordering and Shipping
Select the required shaft length from the available product options. Review the pin diameter, length, and compatibility of your existing hardware before adding the product to your cart.
Shipping costs and delivery estimates depend on the destination, order contents, and available shipping services. The applicable shipping charge and available options are displayed at checkout.
Need help confirming the fit? Compare your existing pin and receiving fitting with the product dimensions. If the measurements are unclear, contact AirowMarine with the fitting dimensions and photos for assistance.