Mast Float

[Barry]

I would like to put a "mast float" on my DSII to avoid turtling. Any observations or suggestions as to type?

[algonquin]

I haven't seen to many run a mast float but I know what you mean about the potential turn turtle problem. The simplest method I have seen is to wire tie a plastic gallon jug with a handle of some sort to the top of the mast. I have also seen them fastened just above the jib but seems it would be more effective near the mast top. I believe there is a method using a spray expanding foam in the mast but the jug seems pretty simple and cheap.

You could even get a little artsy with it !

[bkafer]

I got some two inch foam. glued it up in layers , using a waterproof glue.
Next I shaped the block like a football but just a tad bigger.

Next a piece of alumnium strip 1 inch wide from home depot.

Cut the alum in 2 and drilled holes in each to fit the bolt at the top of the mast.
I then bent the alum up to the the football and put 2 threaded rods thru the foam
and drilled 2 corresponding holes in each alum piece.
bolted it all together and put some white paint on it

Now the secret. when the sailers ask you,
hay whats that thing up there. You tell them its a radar reflector.
If you tell them what its really for they will tease you for a long time.
( i know)


If thats as clear as mud, let me know and I'll draw up a diagram

[earhile]

Hobie makes a product called the "bob" which is a mast head float, if you want to spend the money. I'm sure it can be adapted to a daysailer mast. You can find it at Murrays:

http://www.murrays.com/mm5/merchant.mvc ... e=07-30113

[bkafer]

I don't think i need a mast float on my DSII

We were out this weekend in a force 4 to 5 on the Beauford scale.

I had no problem keeping it rightside up
and I sail, but I'm NO wheres as good as a lot of the people on this site.

One of the boats that went out with us on sunday was a 14.2 capri
The capri is very light and quite fast.

We kept up with the capri which amazed me because in less wind they sailed away from us in the past.

The Capri does point much better than the DS 2 though