Originally Posted by
qclabrat
i have a steel frame which as suffered a horrible fate from watering pooling in the BB and seat chainstays. I was likely from being caught in the rain and not realizing water was running inside. After about 5-7 years it developed significant corrosion to the point where it is no longer safe to ride. Since fatbikes see much of their time in water and snow, won't I expect to see similar collections of water in the BB and seat stays?
Protecting the interior of the frame with Frame Saver would have hindered corrosion, along with some blue or purple Loctite and screws with the correct pitch of thread for said holes. Those holes are for two reasons, but don't quote me, I could be wrong without Googling it first -- 1) For the welding process. 2) for airflow to prevent rust. In my opinion, if the frame is treated with Frame Saver or linseed oil, annual or biannually, there's no need to be concerned of corrosion, especially if the holes are properly plugged.
A properly greased frame bottom bracket prior to installation of the bottom bracket component should also hinder water coming in. I choose a good waterproof marine-grade grease for bottom bracket and seatpost. Most bicycle manufacturers don't do a good job of this at the factory. A good habit is to get the bike completely disassembled and properly greased and deburred and a steel frame internally Frame Saver-ed prior to a full assembly.
A 50 year old hunting r*fle with be point on and work flawless with properly scheduled oiling of steel parts and wooden stock, for example. Even when used in rain, sleet, and snow.