Mast Crutch Roller on H-260

[Sam Morgan]

I am not happy with the mast crutch on my H-260 and was interested to know if someone has figured out a modification. The roller is simply a plastic sleeve over a one-half inch bolt. When I try to move the mast on this roller I do a lot of sliding and not much rolling. Has anyone found a good replacement roller for the one supplied with the crutch?

 

[Tom]

Yes!

The original roller stinks. Look in Boat US or Westmarine catalog or Web site for a large rubber roller. I purchased one the shape of a spool of thread -- wide at the edges -- to keep the mast centered. I also drilled new holes and moved the roller up so that the spreaders clear the top of the tangs.Fair winds,Tom

 

[Sam Morgan]

Thanks Tom

Thanks Tom. I knew someone would have already solved this problem.

 

[crazy dave]

Sam

YOu solved a problem that I see other boats being comissioned have to. As for the rollers, stay away from the black ones and go for the yellow ones. Easier on the mast.

 

[Sam Morgan]

Hi Dave

Hi Dave. Always good to read your thoughts here on the web. I had help from from Marcel Ralbovsky who has had a H-26 for quite awhile. In fact he has the cleanest boat I have seen, better than when shipped from the factory.

 

[Dale Wile]

Heater Hose

I cannot recall the size, but I found heater hose that snugly fit over the plastic roller. An auto parts store sold it in bulk, so I was able to purchase a 6" piece, which was plenty long to force over the roller. The hose is tough and has a rough outer surface that gives traction to rotate as I move the mast forward or backward. A little shot of lubricant inside the roller also improves the situation.