Mast step on a 34 1983

[Lambert Saint-Pierre]

I just bought a new mast for my H-34 1983, I had to change my old mast due to an accident. My question is: the mast that I had first came with a deck step with pulleys in the deck step, so about 5 inchs high. The new mast that I have bought came with the deck step on the mast. (do you follow me?) sorry for my english!. So my question is, do you suggest to cut the part of the mast or the part of my step deck plate???

 

[Geoff McLaughlin]

Just an opinion

Having an early 83 (#001), I have the heavy aluminum step plate molded into the cabin top - very sturdy structure, actually lifts the mast off the cabin top several inches. If you have that, I'd keep it, provided and assuming you can remove the 'new' step from the new mast and fit the new mast over the original properly. (Where did you get the mast?)You have heard the expression measure twice, cut once? Take your time, get a few people to look at it also before proceeding.As a final note, while you are in this major project, you might as well do the compression post, if it is original (see many archive posts on this, when the archives are back up!!). Also, check chainplates and other structure for weakness, so when you get done, you can be sure to have a most reliable rig.It is worth considering how the old mast came to fail, as that failure may have implications for the replacement and associated support structure.Feel free to email me off line - valveman@wi.rr.comGood luck,Geoff

 

[Barry]

Agree with Geoff

The old style mast base is best. You can remove the sheaves and get limited access to the wiring if you ever need to. This saved me from pulling my mast once to fix the lights. This mast base is larger and spreads the load better. I'd keep it if I were you. I just replaced my compression post with stainless steel. Now's the time to check yours. My old one was OK but the design is poor.Barry