H356 Mast base leak

[steves22278]

We have a 2003 H356 which has developed a leak from the cabin roof, down the compression tube, and then on to the little tray around the tube. I caulked the tube at the cabin roof but this did not make any difference. One of my partners read something about a small standpipe inside the mast which will allow some water to collect at the base and then drain out through weep holes in the base of the mast. Took a look today and did not see any weep holes. Anyone have any ideas? Thanks

 

[Jerry Clark H356 SV Persi]

Mine leaked after I took the mast down and I packed the hole the wires go into the cabin with foam and then caulked the entire thing with silicone. No more leaks. Mine was leaking as water was collecting on the outside of the wires and they were conducting the water down the tube. Make sure you completely seal around the wires and tube.

 

[seadaddler]

Ditto

I had a similar leak on my 2001 290 where the mast wires go through in front of the mast and also resealed that hole which stopped the leak.
Nick

 

[Steve Dion]

When you have a deck stepped mast, you should put a drip loop in the wires. This will "help" prevent water following the wires down through the compression post.

You may also want to be sure that the mast step if properly caulked too. You also want to be sure that there is no caulking in the weep holes that allow the mast step to drain. You should try running a wire or drill bit in the weep holes to make sure that they are not plugged with dirt or caulking.

 

[nielsdeterra]

H356 leak

When you have a deck stepped mast, you should put a drip loop in the wires. This will "help" prevent water following the wires down through the compression post.

You may also want to be sure that the mast step if properly caulked too. You also want to be sure that there is no caulking in the weep holes that allow the mast step to drain. You should try running a wire or drill bit in the weep holes to make sure that they are not plugged with dirt or caulking.

I've had this problem for years. Finally solved solved it by nearly covering the metal box that sits forward of the mast in sealant. Wind and water drive the water along the cables ....

 

[nielsdeterra]

(excuse if this appear twice). Have had this problem for years. First thought it was mast issue. Finally totally covered the cable ports in the metal box that sits forward of the mast with sealant, really covered them. Problem solved.