BUCKET OF BOLTS

(slang) an old boat or ship. —9th ACC Volume 2 Approved Glossary

(slang) an old boat or ship.an old, dilapidated car, ship or aircraft; one that rattles and shakes noisily when in motion, producing a sound similar to the rattling of a bucketful of bolts or screws. Bucket of bolts can also be used either derogatorily or affectionately in reference to a car, ship or aircraft that is in sound condition.