Compressions Post Issue and Replacement
Well here goes. Hunter made a shortcut in the compression posts that are used to support the rig. I had the same problem but mine appeared as termite damage to the base of the compression post. Basically there are two regular 2x4's inside the teak trim for the post that is just forward of the cabin bulkhead. Water from the shallow bilge, head, rain and seas drip onto the post and cause rot at the base and the top of the post. If you pry out the teak plugs and remove the brass screws from the teak trim you can inspect the actual post. I replaced mine with a 4x4 pressure treated post with a corner removed to facilitate the PVC pipe with the electrical connections. Then I replaced the teak trim. To do this you either have to remove the mast or put some slings under the speader at an attachment point and use a come-along to lift the load off the deck. Of course you must sufficiently slack the turnbuckles to allow the lift. Failure to carry out this inspection could result in the base of the mast to kick out of the mast base and in confused seas you could loose the rig. I have never felt great about the solution. Ideally I would have the mast removed, fabricate a marine aluminum strut with flanges on each end and replace the wood with a piece I could visually inspect with ease. I have the same problem again with deck depression under the mast. There is also some issues with the bilge area where the post is affixed and also at the crossmember at the top of the post. I would inspect all that carefully.The two problems with our boats are that post, and the shallow bilge. Other than that I love the HUnter 27 that I have and will keep it till I die. If you have any other questions emial me at: keithsails@gmail.com