Having lost our 1981 H-30 mast to katrina, I have just about giving up on finding a like for like replacement mast. In the course of the search, I have found several that are a foot or so too short or too tall, and would not fit the deck step, or foot, what ever it's called. Has anyone ever installed a mast that was different from the original? Can I cut 12 inches or so off of a mast to bring it to 40' 6" as the old one and change the step to match to replacement spar? A new spar is out of the question, or price range....and all of the salvaged boats, not many parts for sale so far. Merry Christmas all!