how to replace batten pocket grommets?

[gahamby]

The chrome plated brass grommets on my mainsail are really corroded. A clean up doesn't last too long.
What's the preferred replacement procedure? Besides taking it to the sailmaker and loosing the sail for a month.
Do you drill out the grommets with a drill bit or counter sink?
How do you go about setting two grommets that are right on top of one another? do I put the bottom of the tool in the pocket, set one grommet, and then flip the tool and sail to do the other side?
I'm thinking I should make a jig that will clamp on to the sail that will protect the cloth and stop it from twisting while drilling out the grommets.
I am open for suggestion. Please advise. Thanks GH

[Matt Haberman]

The grommets can be "peeled" apart using a good pair of side cutters.
Setting the new ones requires the correct size die set for the grommet. Depending on the width of the batten pocket you might squeeze the punch inside there, otherwise​ you will need to split the pocket and the restitch it.
Make sure you use a good quality nickel plated spur grommet.

[gahamby]

Matt,
Thanks for the reply.
Peeled apart with side cutters you say. I'll give that a try. Sounds less perilous than a drill bit.
I think the current plating is nickel,what's left of it.
I ordered some stainless steel grommets and the proper tooling.
I sincerely hope I don't have to rip the seams on the batten pockets.
I have now viewed YouTube videos showing the use of a screwdriver as a chisel to pry them apart( tent company), A Dremel tool with a burr( Sailrite), and a corset maker using needle nose pliers( blood blisters).
The stuff gets here today. We shall see.
The grommets and tooling arrived in good order. Really nice product, highly recommended.
A pair of nippers for ceramic tile really did the trick for removing the old grommets.
The grommets were so ate up that they came away easily.
I was able to fit the grommet tool right into the end of the batten pocket and do both sides properly.

http://www.stimpson.com/grommets/stainl ... options-2/

[gahamby]

[Matt Haberman]

Looks good!