The mast gate on my 272LE will not close. The rivet or whatever fitting that holds it appears to have corroded and disintegrated. I’m seeking advice on how to repair or replace it. The part does not seem to be available from D&R.
Mast gates are usually aftermarket items. When I zoom in, It appears threaded as it enters the mast. I would guess the mast was tapped as is common. You could try filling it with some JB Weld and re-tapping it,but it probably will strip again pretty soon. You could try a threaded insert that gets riveted in the hole. You could also try moving up one size. It looks like a #8 size, so you could move up to a #10, drill it (9/64, I think?), tap it. You may need to drill that knurled knob out to fit the larger screw.
Might want to call Rig Rite to see if they have suggestions. I got a replacement mast gate for the Isomat mast on my 240.
http://www.rigrite.com/Spars/MetalMast_Spars/MetalMast_Mainsail_Gates.php
http://www.rigrite.com/Spars/MetalMast_Spars/MetalMast_Mainsail_Gates.php
The insert agprice is talking about is called a nutcert. They work very well, and will be much stronger than tapping and threading into aluminum. They are a little finicky to use, so I'd get a good quality tool and not a cheap one, otherwise the nutcert will spin before you snug up the screw. Also, use red locktite and let it cure.
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=nutcert&...892189&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_96qfnbuquj_e
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=nutcert&...892189&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_96qfnbuquj_e
I have a 272. The nylon or plastic gate stop did not break on my boat but I never did like it. I bought a Davis Instruments sail stop (item# 613631) from Defender for $8.99 and ground the sides down to the size to fit in the slot. It is a better arrangement.
That is an aftermarket fixture. Just unscrew it out to remove from the mast. Just grab that insert with some pliers and unscrew the bolt. What is the function of that insert? Is it a spacer or a tightener? Check the threads at the mast to see if they are reusable; if damaged just fill it in and consider re-drilling at a different spot.
Here's another option if you're interested. I just bought one for my 322. Seems like a better solution over the thumb screw arrangement the boat had from the PO (which interfered with reefing).
https://www.mastgates.com/
https://www.mastgates.com/
Hey Mickstr,
What specifically did you order for your 322? The gate on my 322 is pretty fragile, but not sure what I can use to replace it...
Greg