Lines inside mast

[Buoysmom]

We are new to sailing so I may not be using the right terms. We bought a 1984 hunter 35.5, we think a line may be broken inside the mast. We need to put new equipment up on the mast. My question is how do you run new wires and new rope in the mast without taking it down?

 

[Rich Stidger]

Wires and a line may require two different solutions.

A line is relatively easy because it resides loose inside that mast. Hoist yourself up to the head of the mast and into the opening where the replacement line should exit, drop a string with a small diameter metal washer tied to it. Also tying a fishing sinker could help the line drop to the base of the mast without getting caught on anything inside on the way down. Lower the string until someone at the deck level can see the end dangling inside through the opening where the line exits. Using a magnet taped to the end of a stick, snag the washer and pull out the string. Now use the string to pull a larger line and ultimately the replacement line up through the mast.

New wires are a different problem. Although you could run them the same way as a line, wires are commonly run in a loom or an enclosed channel so that they don't slap inside of the mast and so they don't get tangled with any of the lines. There may be no easy way to accomplish this- maybe someone else has a workable suggestion. Even with the mast down, this can be a difficult job.

Sorry, wish I had better advice.

 

[Buoysmom]

Thank you for the information, it was helpful!

 

[timsha]

also leave a mouse afterwards (small line) to make it easier in the future

 

[artboas]

May I suggest...

also leave a mouse afterwards (small line) to make it easier in the future

You almost have it right with the washer & magnet.
The problem is that washers don't weigh very much, and getting a line to drop cleanly down a mast without binding up us very challenging.
I've spent more hours in a bosun's chair fishing wires and rope than you would believe.
So, here is a surefire method.
Get an electrical fish tape which is at least the mast height.
In your case, a 50' fish is perfect. Home Depot sells these for about $20
On the end of the fish, attach 1 foot of bead chain.
Now, run the fish down the mast from the top.
You will know when it hits bottom, cause the guy at the base will hear it very clearly.
Now, insert a tubukar magnet, (home depot sells magnets at the end of a telescoping pen), and you'll pick up the bead chain instantly.
Pull the bead chain out of the hole, and attach a light line to it.
The man aloft then retracts the fish, and the tracer line is now at the masthead.
This is a no-fuss foolproof method.

 

[Buoysmom]

Very helpful information. Thank you!