does the mast ?
question would be
does the aluminum mast
loose some of it's strenth if re-straightened ?
a question for one who works with metals
I did some time in repair and fab shops many years ago
we straightened a lot of things
that those guys and gals had bent
my oldest friend of 50 years
works in a metal fab shop yet still today
I have brought several things to him
so as to straighten from me over the years
one time he just wanted to put a new (iron) axle in
I said "no just do your best at straightening it"
the axle turned out next to perfect
and the repaired trailer pulled like a dream
with pullys and braces and the know how
a man who knows his tools and how to use them
should be able to get that thing pretty darn straight
straight enough where only you will notice
(with a tuned eye that is)
a local fab shop
that is looking to be tested in their skills
should be able to tackle this job
for between 50 to 150 dollars
just for the challenge
my friend would take a bent mast to his shop
and I'am sure do a decent repair for 50 bucks
that is with me having to force that amount on him
a good sailing day wished for all from Mountainman
MetalGeek : Code, Metal and Cleverness: How to Bend Tubing and Pipe by Hand
Use the tools that are available. Difficult bending can aided by the proper application of a forklift. Jigs can be mounted vertically on shop pillars so you can use your body weight. It looks silly bouncing up and down, but it's effective.
Bending Data
Metal always springs back from the jig. Here are a few charts that show results I've gotten. Some of the data may not make sense, and some of it may be wrong. Metal hardness can vary, even from the same mill. (((Aluminum))) is more unpredictable than steel.
http://metalgeek.com/archives/2005/05/01/000047.php
a littler smaller block and tackle shown than what we are looking for regarding this repair -- hydraulic jacks and pulling systems may also come into play
Block and Tackle System
For large cross sections (e.g., 2" x 2"), it is useful to have a block and tackle system with custom fittings to help bend the wood and or metals.