Mast
It is not necessary to replace a mast (aluminum or otherwise) just because it is aged. You can do a visual inspection of any attachment points, for example: Sheave boxes, rivets, winches, spreaders, standing rigging attachment points, or any other fittings or areas of stress. You are going to be looking for any signs of pitting or corrosion, loose rivets, stress cracking, or deformation of any of these areas. You may have to clean these areas to remove any paint or dirt that could mask the damage (if any). Even if you do find some areas of concern, you most likely won't need to replace the mast, that is unless you are like many boaters I've come across... More Money - Than Brains... Then by all means, buy a new mast, the industry could use the money.
It is not necessary to replace a mast (aluminum or otherwise) just because it is aged. You can do a visual inspection of any attachment points, for example: Sheave boxes, rivets, winches, spreaders, standing rigging attachment points, or any other fittings or areas of stress. You are going to be looking for any signs of pitting or corrosion, loose rivets, stress cracking, or deformation of any of these areas. You may have to clean these areas to remove any paint or dirt that could mask the damage (if any). Even if you do find some areas of concern, you most likely won't need to replace the mast, that is unless you are like many boaters I've come across... More Money - Than Brains... Then by all means, buy a new mast, the industry could use the money.
My aluminum mast is now 40 years old I have never painted or waxed it. It sort of a deep gun metal color I inspect it every season It looks ok no signs of corrosion I did replace all the standing and running rigging within the last 5 years. My philosiphy has always been, If it ain`t broke don`t fix it. How long can I expect it to last? Is it time for a new mast or do I wait for the inevitable something to happen Opinions would be welcome.