Mast compression?

[boudine]

I am new to this forum, and have a question about a boat that I am buying. She is a 1980 Hunter 30, in great condition. My question is; how can you tell if there is mast compression, if you don't see any sagging of the headliner? I thought about pouring water at the mast base,to look for ponding but I don't think that works.
Having read about this problem in numerous reviews, I am a little concerned.
Also, the cockpit floor seems to be soft (the helm can be rocked easily) I have been working with boats for 30 years (licensed capt. for 15) and have no problems with fixing these things, I just want other opinions.
Thanks

 

[Ed Schenck]

Matter of price. . . .

I think. If the boat meets your requirements and you are comfortable fixing those problems then cost becomes the deciding factor. On the compression question I think you have to get under the cabin sole and check the compression post support. That is where the problem lies. And the archives here on HOW have pictures and repair information. On the cockpit sole I think you already know there is a problem. A moisture meter would provide further proof. Again you will find the information to fix that here on HOW. Even with your experience maybe a survey is in order?

 

[JC2]

Anything can be fixed.

Ed has a point. And I have not even put a moisture meter on my boat-- I just don't want to know! But its gelcoat is not bad and it's going to be painted with Brightside, and the deck I have discussed in numerous other posts, in terms of condition and how to remedy/fill it. A cockpit floor would be done in exactly the same way and with the same, reliable, rock-hard results.

I just posted something under H-27s about a compression-post fix which may be worth reading. This is apparently a very misunderstood part of the boat and frankly that surprises me. Ed is right-- a lot of the problem may be underneath it, and I solved that by building timbers like those on wooden boats to spread and settle the load. The deck is the other concern. My boat came with a hatch shroud that extended forward to under the mast step. (It was for looks. It was the '70s.) This had a piece of 1/2" plywood glassed under it to sit against the deck and spread the load of the mast itself, which was located forward of the main bulkhead so to facilitate a silding door in the head (it was the '70s). I gave over all of this for whole new system and the only thing I lose is the sliding door (it hinges now though it's only 16" wide).

You can fix any of this stuff if you are patient enough to identify and understand the problem, grasp the solution, and comprehend the consequences. There is enough brain trust out there that all you have to do is ask someone. Buy the boat-- it is a very good model-- and do the work and have something you know well, can trust, and will love.

JC2

 

[boudine]

well,

The boat had a survey done 16 months ago, and the owner fixed all problems noted in the survey. Nothing was mentioned in the survey about mast compression.
There was a note on the steel I beam in the bilge needing a cleanning, and paint. Is the mast base area (fiberglass cabin top)supposed to be flat? this one is down about 1/2 inch.
Since I work on boats every day, the last thing I want is a major project. Fixing the cockpit floor, and mast step is a job that is not a problem for me.(been there, done that) The more I have to do to this boat to make it right, the better my bargaining position on price.
I have sent an oil sample to the lab to make sure the engine is in good condition, and there will be a sea trial before I write the check.
I have read the how-to section, and it seems like mast compression is a common problem.
Thanks for all your help, and second opinions are always appreciated.