Bent Spreader

[Bob]

While preparing my 2000 26x for trailering, I accidentally bent one of my spreaders. Does anyone have any experience in trying to straighten one? The bend is at the mast.

 

[Oscar]

Bent Spreader Reuse

Bob, I too went through the same thing. As I found out from the dealer I bought my 26X from,it is unwise to try and straighten the bent spreader. It is very lightly constructed. Rebending means that it is weakened, and couldfail under stress. I bought two new spreadersfor the sum of $25.00 + tax, for each one, andreplaced them both. I prefer being safe thansorry. BTW, If you have difficulty in findingnew spreaders, try Arena Yacht sales in SanRafael. Hope this helps.

 

[steve]

I too bent one of my spreaders (it cracked at mast bracket) what i did was, trim the other side to the same lenght. (cut off 1 1/4 inch) then set the mast and corrected tension on rigging.my spreaders are 1" OD with a wall thickness of 1/16th of an inch, i have a 2000 "X". I went to a local alum. shop they had round tubing of that dimension for $1.38 a foot. you might try that. the thing to watch out for is that the insert for the rigging is tight.good luck,steve26x "heard the call"

 

[Paul Drew]

Getting by

Slight bend and marking at mast on spreader. Considered replacing with Stainless tubing but found 3/4 galvanized pipe placed in end that is bent can be straightend by standing on and rolling on smooth concrete floor. Then pvc regurlar or thick wall 3/4 will fit in side a perfict fit. Six or 7 inches of pvc. Re drill hole.