Mast/Cabin Leakage

[Gorrion]

While I don't experience significant leakage where the mast step passes through the top of the cuddy cabin, I like things nice and tight. I thought about placing foam pipe insulation between mast and mast hole, but found the gap too thin. What do you think about simply placing a thick bead of silicone around the opening? I think this would provide a good seal while still permitting limited motion of the mast. Any thoughts?

[Roger]

I used a 2 and I think 1/4" rubber plumbing pipe joiner. It has a rib midway inside, was soft and flexible enough to turn inside out. I then gooped it up with dishsoap and slid it on and up the mast support post, then inserted the post into the mast hole, and slid the joiner down so that the lip was flush with the deckhole. (It helps to get in in the right location, then slide post and rubber into the hole at the same time. Otherwise it is difficult to press the slippery rubber into the slight gap.) It was a snug fit, and I had to add a bit of silicone where the sail track was, (to fill it). I have no leaks on the inside whatsoever.

To make sure of the size before you head off to the plumbing store, measure the distance around the outside of the mast support post. Then divide this by pi (3.1416) which will give you the diameter you want to get close to in pipe size. Good luck!

[Gorrion]

for all of your help. I've owned Not Again! (her name is actually written inverted, sort of a pun) for 3 years now, but have had her in the water only 3 times. Yes, I'm ashamed, but an addition to our family and advancement at work have made free time dear. I started making repairs to her last year and was brave enough to make some fiberglass and gel coat repairs this year. I've learned to appreciate MarineTex!

I found these forums last year and have gleaned invaluable informaiton from you and other posters. Your advice on de/re-trailering the DS II was pure gold to me last month! From a novice sailor, thanks much for sharing your expansive knowledge and experience!

Two more questions, please:

1. The bronze coloring is wearing thin on my mast and boom. How would I go about recoloring (anodizing??) them?

2. Have you ever thought about adding ventilation to the cuddy? Mine sat trailered for a number of years and the cuddy has an odd odor. I thought that adding a water-resistant vent or two to the bow or port/starboard sides of the raised portion of the cuddy might keep things "fresher". But I don't want to impair anything structural.

Thanks again, Roger.

ps - The previous owner had named her Poverty Sucks. Thanks goodness I was able to locate the procedures for a denaming ceremony!