Check the archives
I recall several discussions about 3 months ago on this subject. The post on my '81 H-33 appears intact, but I looked over the postings. It appears the post in imbedded in the fiberglass and wood base there in the bilge. If I had to replace mine, I think I'd do this. 1- Step the mast (remove it) to reduce compression loads. 2- Support the cabin top with a temporary a-frame. 3- Measure the height from the top of the compression post to the bottom of the bilge carefully. 4- Chisel out the fiberglass and wood support, then recheck the measurements in 3 above. 5- Get a new post fabricated of aluminum (steel will rust quicker, stainless would be harder to work and costly) with a plate on top, and on bottom. The bottom plate would rest on the bottom of the bilge, and straddle a couple of the keel bolts. Some precautions will need to be taken to minimize electrolysis at this point. The keel bolts will keep the post in place, and without the fiberglass hump there any water in the forward portion of the bilge can drain. 6- I'd have a drain hole drilled in the base of the post just above the base plate, and a larger hole up a few inches, below the bilge boards to pull any wiring through. That's my plan. A couple others have addressed the problem and had different solutions so be sure to look through the archives. It shouldn't be a terribly hard or expensive project. Good luck.
