Exposing the compression post w/ mast still in place?

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Apr 16, 2006
75
Hunter 31_83-87 Key West
After viewing the archives for entries about compression post problems I'd like to expose the one on my boat for examination. However, in the articles I read I didn't see where anyone had disassembled the surrounding box or actually replaced the post while the mast was still in place. In some of the archived cases, the surrounding box was all that remained of the support system. I'm wondering if my post turns out to be rotted and I remove the surrounding box, what's the likelihood that the mast might come crashing through the cabin top. I believe relieving the tension on the shrouds would be practical, so they won't be pulling the mast downward and I'd only be dealing with the dead weight of the mast. Any thoughts on this before I start taking stuff apart?
 
Jun 2, 2004
5,802
Hunter 37-cutter, '79 41 23' 30"N 82 33' 20"W--------Huron, OH
Here are photos.

Your exact project is documented in photos right here on HOW. This place is such a great resource. But you have to remember that photo projects are in the "Photo/Project" Forum for the appropriate manufacturer. I simply did a search on H31, 83-87. Of course it helps that I have been using the site for over ten years. :) Doesn't Phil do a great job though!!
 
Apr 16, 2006
75
Hunter 31_83-87 Key West
Yup. That's exactly what I had in mind

You're correct. That's exactly what I had in mind. Man, are those photos of the old compression posts frightening. With Hurricane Wilma, I had about 18" of salt water in the boat for about three days. This caused the floors to delaminate some, so I can just imagine what the post looks like. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction. Ya gotta love this forum.
 
Dec 2, 1999
15,184
Hunter Vision-36 Rio Vista, CA.
I do not think that is a good idea.

The reason the compression post rotted was from a leak comming down the mast and getting into the deck area, cross memeber and down the post. I suggest that you completely remove the mast. The wires should have a drip loop in them and the pipe that runs through the deck is packed with putty or caulking. Many of the boats have also had rot in the cross member and bulkhead. It is something that if you fix it correctly, it will be the last time you need to do the repair. If you go cheap and miss something you may be doing it again.
 
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