Cracks in forward stay mount?

[Jim Hamilton]

Hello folks... We did the survey on the soon-to-be-mine '87 Catalina 30 today. The surveyor noted some very small cracks in the bracket that holds the forward stay...the bracket is an all-in-one with the rollers for the anchor etc. The cracks are right at the base of the brackett that the stay attaches to. I'm GUESSING that a 16 year old boat would have such minor cracks, but since it's in the aluminum bracket, am I looking at a failure-in-the-making? Could anyone with an 86-88 catalina 30 check closely around the bracket at the forestay and see if you've got the same problem? I'd appreciate it as it would help me sleep better knowing it's a common problem. Many thanks!!Jim'Dolphin'San Diego

 

[Joe Ford]

Call customer service...

...at catalinayachts.com. Talk to David. I doubt that the stemhead is aluminum. probably stainless steel. Anyway, ask them what a new one costs. The ones with the anchor rollers are often pricey. Another option is to call a rigger (Pacific Offshore Rigging in San Diego is one). Ask them your question. You can expect solid, specific information related to that model boat. It could be no big deal. By the way, the forward stay is called the forestay. It is attached to the bow fitting or stemhead.