I recently purchased an enterprise 4.2m wooden sailboat. It was built in 1968. Unfortunately, the wooden mast (20' 6" in length) has a small crack (approx 3") on one side. The crack is a few inches and goes horizontally (when the mast is up). This is a two peice mast and the crack is limited to one side. The wood does not have any deteriation except for the crack it is fairly solid. I believe it occurred because a tarp was hanging over the mast throughout a winter and it stressed the end. The crack begins underneith the plate where the shrouds attach. When I flex the mast with my hands I can see the crack open up a bit. I am struggling to find some information on the best way to repair this. First of all I am considering epoxying the crack then I am considering building a "cast" around it approximately 18-24" on each side from either fiberglass or kevlar. Does anyone have a suggestion as to how to fix this? Any opinions on my ideas? Thanks so much for the suggestions!
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Scarf?
My 2 cents: Is this perhaps at a scarf joint? If so, it is an easier fix. If not, the proper repair is probably to make a scarf joint. Of course, you could try to force-flex it and lay some epoxy in and then release it and let it cure. Trouble is that the method relys on a bonded butt joint which cant be as strong as something scarfed in. Got an old-timer around the docks? Bet you could get some help. Good luck, Rick D.
My 2 cents: Is this perhaps at a scarf joint? If so, it is an easier fix. If not, the proper repair is probably to make a scarf joint. Of course, you could try to force-flex it and lay some epoxy in and then release it and let it cure. Trouble is that the method relys on a bonded butt joint which cant be as strong as something scarfed in. Got an old-timer around the docks? Bet you could get some help. Good luck, Rick D.
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