Brand New Sailor...New Boat

[Terry Luck]

I am in need of some guidance. I have a Seafarer 26. I need to step the mast. I have never done this before.

Where can I get some help or education on this?

Do I need to fabricate a tabernacle?

Thanks
Terry

 

[rgranger]

A tabernacle is the hinge that connects your mast to your cabin top. I'm guessing you have one of those. If not, you will need to buy one. They are not too expensive.

 

[rgranger]

Where can I get some help or education on this?

uTube is a good source. All boats this size use a similar system with a "gin" pole on the front of the mast for leverage. See if you can find a uTube for your boat but if not... try a Hunter 26, MacGregor 26 or Balboa 26.

I have a PDF someplace that also describes it.. so if you can't fine a uTube, PM me.

 

[shemandr]

Here's a utube video re using a tabernacle method on a H27 B&R rig:

I think the Seafarer mast is a tree trunk compared to that B&R mast. You'll note from the video this method is anything but easy, even for professional riggers. And the clip doesn't actually show the mast come down. Take note that they had be adapt the mast step. For your first go 'round I think it would be entirely appropriate to get experienced help.

 

[Hobopacket]

So do you need to step the mast and then it's stepped for good? or do you need to step it everytime you go out? If it's everytime then you need a proper mast raising system. A good mast crutch and gin pole setup.

If it's just once a season, get a few friends and lift it up there. I raise my c22 mast without anything but my wife and I everytime.

 

[dscribner]

Terry,
With a good gin pole setup, stepping the mast is no big deal, just don't hurry the preparation, Take a look at RGranger's pics. I've used both styles but I really prefer the one on the bottom with the "L" slot. Simply roll the mast rearward, slide the mast pin (fixed in the end of the mast) into the slot and let it fall into place. Now you can putz around with all the other stuff and not worry about the mast. With the top one, you have to carefully align the holes and slide a bolt thru. Kind of a PITA. My mast weighs about 150 lbs and we can step it on about 10 minutes. Actual raising time is about 15 seconds.

 

[Terry Luck]

Awesome! I believe that mine weighs approximately the same. I do not have a hinge for the mast to pivot up on. There is a "boot" that fits inside the mast at the base. I am going to have to rig something up for it.