What are the methods of removing the mast, going to refurbish the boat and need to de-mast it for transport to drydock. call if explaining over the phone would be easier. Dan 702-328-6173
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Now That Was Interesting...
Yesterday I built the above diagrammed A-frame Mast Stepping system and put it to the test last night. As advertized, the a-frame fit like a glove, the mast raised above the step plate and I began walking it towards the bow. The system was a marvel of egyptian technology. Just as I was lifting the mast base onto the bow pulpet I heard a snap, then a sudden jurk on the mast followed by a loud crash and blood curdling scream. I turned towards the stern to see my wife holding a bloody hand and cursing me like only a true sailor can. One of the 16ft two-bys snapped at a knot on the board and like Humpty-Dumpty, it all came tumbling down.
Now I know that this kind of thing might dampen some guys spirits, but I'm an optimist. The mast did land "TOTALLY UNHARMED" in the cradle, we were in and out of the emergancy room in less then an hour and the bride only needed three stiches and a tetanus shot. I really don't know why She's so ticked-off? Anyway, I think the moral of this story is, don't scrimp on supplies. Instead of buying the wood on sale at H/D, spend an extra two bucks and buy the good stuff (without knots every two feet), purhaps use 2" aluminum pipes instead, or just pay the crane guy his $100 and have it lifted off.
Well, time to do the dishes and the laundry. It seems that with my wifes finger in a splint she feels that I should do the chores for the next week or so. I REALLY don't understand why she's so upset?
Happy Sailing All,
BILL
Yesterday I built the above diagrammed A-frame Mast Stepping system and put it to the test last night. As advertized, the a-frame fit like a glove, the mast raised above the step plate and I began walking it towards the bow. The system was a marvel of egyptian technology. Just as I was lifting the mast base onto the bow pulpet I heard a snap, then a sudden jurk on the mast followed by a loud crash and blood curdling scream. I turned towards the stern to see my wife holding a bloody hand and cursing me like only a true sailor can. One of the 16ft two-bys snapped at a knot on the board and like Humpty-Dumpty, it all came tumbling down.
Now I know that this kind of thing might dampen some guys spirits, but I'm an optimist. The mast did land "TOTALLY UNHARMED" in the cradle, we were in and out of the emergancy room in less then an hour and the bride only needed three stiches and a tetanus shot. I really don't know why She's so ticked-off? Anyway, I think the moral of this story is, don't scrimp on supplies. Instead of buying the wood on sale at H/D, spend an extra two bucks and buy the good stuff (without knots every two feet), purhaps use 2" aluminum pipes instead, or just pay the crane guy his $100 and have it lifted off.
Well, time to do the dishes and the laundry. It seems that with my wifes finger in a splint she feels that I should do the chores for the next week or so. I REALLY don't understand why she's so upset?
Happy Sailing All,
BILL
I only had to remove the mast on my Cal 227 once, leaking step. I had the yard remove it. I resealed the step and renewed the electrics on the mast. It was worth every penny. I know how easy it is for something unforeseen to happen with large unwieldy objects. Ray T
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