Replacing Mast Step with non-OEM Mast

For issues common to different models of DaySailer.
Except Rigging and Sails.

Moderator: GreenLake

Replacing Mast Step with non-OEM Mast

Postby waterbug » Tue Jun 16, 2015 12:48 pm

Hello,

I have a Sailstar Explorer, a Daysailer copy. I bought it from a man who snapped the mast in 2. I now have a new mast, that is slightly different dimensions than the original. I had a setup similar to what is pictured, and being new to sailing, I'm wondering if something like this is best to go with again, or some other option might be better? In case the picture doesn't come through, it's a U shaped metal collar that mounts to the short mast section that is permanently affixed from the deck to the cabin roof.

Thank you~
Peter.
Attachments
cats paws mast step end view 320x.jpg
cats paws mast step end view 320x.jpg (24.44 KiB) Viewed 7819 times
waterbug
 
Posts: 17
Joined: Tue Jul 30, 2013 1:04 am

Re: Replacing Mast Step with non-OEM Mast

Postby GreenLake » Wed Jun 17, 2015 12:01 am

Looks like the slots allow the mast to hinge without using an actual hinge in the mast step. Different from the typical fixture used on most split-mast DS, where there is an actual hinge.

If the mast fits and supports adding the hinge at the location needed, I can't immediately think of a reason why this shouldn't work for your new mast. But perhaps we'll get someone to chime in who's used a design like this.
~ green ~ lake ~ ~
GreenLake
 
Posts: 7136
Joined: Mon Jun 18, 2007 3:54 am

Re: Replacing Mast Step with non-OEM Mast

Postby waterbug » Wed Jun 17, 2015 10:48 am

To be clear, this is not what I have. This is the closest I could find to what was once use on this boat, but it's the wrong size and is damaged beyond use. I was simply using this picture to show what was there in the past, and I need to start anew, and am looking for the best suggestions.
Thank you,
Peter.
waterbug
 
Posts: 17
Joined: Tue Jul 30, 2013 1:04 am

Re: Replacing Mast Step with non-OEM Mast

Postby RayD » Mon Jun 22, 2015 10:15 pm

It's called a tabernacle. That design is not typically used on a Daysailer, but it should work. Lots of other boats use them.
RayD
 
Posts: 2
Joined: Sun Apr 12, 2015 8:32 pm

Re: Replacing Mast Step with non-OEM Mast

Postby waterbug » Tue Jun 23, 2015 10:04 am

Are the castings the typical arrangement?
I am ultimately looking for advice on various ways to do it and pros/cons of those choices.
Thanks,
Peter.
waterbug
 
Posts: 17
Joined: Tue Jul 30, 2013 1:04 am

Re: Replacing Mast Step with non-OEM Mast

Postby waterbug » Tue Jun 23, 2015 10:06 am

This is my original set-up.
Attachments
11428557_10207080764248199_465046598_n.jpg
11428557_10207080764248199_465046598_n.jpg (54.4 KiB) Viewed 7773 times
11349093_10207080764288200_1330478746_n.jpg
11349093_10207080764288200_1330478746_n.jpg (39.1 KiB) Viewed 7773 times
waterbug
 
Posts: 17
Joined: Tue Jul 30, 2013 1:04 am

Re: Replacing Mast Step with non-OEM Mast

Postby waterbug » Tue Jun 23, 2015 10:28 am

And here's my new mast, slightly different dimensions, 2 5/8" x 2 7/8".
Attachments
unnamed-1.jpg
unnamed-1.jpg (71.2 KiB) Viewed 7772 times
unnamed.jpg
unnamed.jpg (108.44 KiB) Viewed 7772 times
waterbug
 
Posts: 17
Joined: Tue Jul 30, 2013 1:04 am

Re: Replacing Mast Step with non-OEM Mast

Postby UCanoe_2 » Sun Jun 28, 2015 12:37 pm

Waterbug, if your new mast does not exactly match your old fittings, you may be able to make an aluminum adapter:
1643
1642

My replacement mast was slightly larger than the original. I drilled and tapped for machine screws, filled the gaps with 3M 5200, and screwed everything together. You could use epoxy instead of 5200. Using plastic shims (old milk jugs) and teflon thread sealer between aluminum and stainless steel parts will help prevent corrosion.
1641

Here's what mine looks like assembled. The black stuff is Poor Man's Layout Dye, a.k.a. magic marker. Comes right off with denatured alcohol.
1644
"George Washington as a boy was ignorant of the commonest accomplishments of youth. He could not even lie."
-- Mark Twain
UCanoe_2
 
Posts: 104
Joined: Thu Sep 10, 2009 8:31 pm
Location: Landlocked in Mount Solon, VA


Return to Repair and Improvement

Who is online

Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 15 guests

cron