Standing Tall ?

[Moebetta]

Aloha, I have a 1974 Catalina 27. At the bottom of the mast there are tiny holes that have started to corrode through and a small crack at the base. The aluminum is starting to turn a light color around the base. What can be done? Don't want to have to replace the mast if at all possible. Still suffering from an engine rebuild. Mahalo.

 

[Dale]

Save your mast

You probably have serious corrosion at the base of your mast. Have the mast taken down . Cut off the corroded potion of the base and have your rigger fabricate a new base that will be welded to your now short mast. Be sure to include a couple of 3/8" drain holes to let water out. I had to do all this for my 1977 27. You will also need to replace your mast step. It has probably corroded into dust, like mine had. Spray the new work with zinc chromate to inhibit future corrosion.Check your chainplates and eyebolts too. If you haven't replaced them, I suggeset new ones from catalinadirect.com. They saved my rig.