216 Mast Step Question

[ScottMc]

For those not familiar with the 216, the mast folds back and comes off for trailering. Theres a hinged bracket attached to the 'keel' that is the mast step when sailing. I lowered my mast to fast and popped the bracket up from the plastic cabin insert. I've had a heck of a time trying to get that bracket secured down again. Does anyone know what is under the plastic? I can't find any structural documentation. It seems like wood, but can't really be sure what I'm dealing with. I'm thinking about cutting out the plastic insert to see under it, but if that is the main thing holding the mast in place, then that would be a huge mistake. Wondering if anyone else has had to deal with this?

 

[Benny17441]

The hinged mast tabernacle is usually held by a few screws to the top of the cabin. Those screw are merely to hold the base in place while the extreme forces placed on the mast will be handled by the standing rigging. Not familiar with the 216 but would dare venture there is not much direct attachment to a keel. I had a similar mishap in a 23' boat and just poured epoxy in the holes and inserted some metal anchors. Later I would fasten the tabernacle back with screws into the anchors. Sailed that boat for probably 10 years after that with no problems.

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

Take a photo of the mast step and foot and post here. Thanks