Mast Step Repair

[kevin6882]

I am in the process of restoring a 1969 MacGregor 21'. The area around the Mast step bracket was severely damaged and rotted. I have replaced the area with new plywood and and glassed it in. My question is what else should I do to ensure this area will be able to withstand the forces acting on the repaired area when the boat is under sail.

 

[Tim]

Compression Post

I believe most of the force would be taken up by the compression post inside. This transfers the entery from the deck to the keel trunk/hull. I believe this is needed on any deck stepped mast.

 

[Bruce Niederer]

MacGregor 21 mast strp

I had a friend with the same boat and would have to comment that MacGregor 21's were a bit under built. Tim from Maine is correct that the compression post should transfer the compression load to the keel and hull, but you may have to look at reinforcing the area below the post. If it looks like there's any sign of compression failure in the laminate below and around the post you might consider beefing that area up a bit. The rig and sail plan do not generate large loads though, so maybe the best thing is to keep an eye on both areas and just enjoy the boat.