Leaking mast step

[Briann]

We have a 1985 Hunter 31 and have discovered that there is a leak likely coming from the mast step. Does anyone know if the 4 phillips head screws are bolts which are tightened on nuts inside the core or are they screws? If they lead to nuts, how does one remove the step to check and reseal?

 

[Gary]

Check the archives.....

for plenty of info on this issue. Under the mast base, there is a hole drilled thru the deck with a 3/4" pvc conduit allowing mast wires thru, and sealant around it. The sealant has given up. You must unstep the mast and re-seal....or close the hole off permanently as I did. I have always wondered if you could loosen the rigging and "slide" the mast base over some to expose the hole, while boat is floating. You should check compression post for rot also. The screws you mention screw into nuts which are permanantly set into the deck. Good luck