Loosening Wood Wedges at Partners

[Larry Youngman]

The wood wedges on my '98 Cat 36 are suspect. One fell out on to the cabin sole. I put it back, but had to use adhesive to make it hold. Does anyone have this situation? Can wood wedges be replaced, should they? Seems that factory could use better device than these wedges to support the mast at the partners?

 

[Rodney Kidd]

Spartite

Larry,I replaced my wooden wedges with a product called Spartite. Spartite is a two part pourable hard rubber sealant made specifically to replace wooden wedges. The Spartite kit includes materials to build a dam to keep the mixture from running through and hardens in about 30 minutes. You can sail the boat after a couple of days. Spartite comes in two hardnesses, cruising and racing. The cruising mix would be appropriate for your C-36.Rodney KiddC-38 #297, Flying Bear

 

[Larry Youngman]

Thanks, Flying Bear

Thanks for the info. Question: Does the Spartite bond to the mast? If the mast is removed, is Spartite destroyed?

 

[Rodney Kidd]

Spartite Reuse

Larry,I'm sorry I'm so tardy with this response. Spartite does bond to the mast unless the instructions are followed. The instructions included with Spartite say to spread a thin layer of vaseline on the mast and mast collar so that the Spartite resin will not stick to either the collar or the mast if the mast is pulled out. I've seen other boat's masts with the Spartite collar intact around the mast when the mast was pulled. The Spartite plug is resealed with a tiny bit of Life Caulk or other sealant upon re-installation.Rod KiddC-38 #297, Flying Bear

 

[Gene Foraker]

Spartite info

I plan on making the change myself. A friend with a new Tartan loves it. For more info check out the web site at spartite.com