Steeping the mast on 27

[Corbyn]

We have a 1988 Catalina 27 wondering how hard is it to raise and lower mast while the boat is in the slip. Or is this best done on land.

 

[LaDonna Bubak - CatalinaOwners]

Crane

It may be *possible* to raise & lower it yourself but I certainly wouldn't recommend it! That's a big mast, not meant for frequent unstepping. Usually, you'll need to get a crane to do this for you. Masts are pretty spendy and the bigger the mast, the more likely it is to drop. Spend the $100 to have it done by a pro.LaDonna

 

[Richard]

local marina crane

If your marina has a crane for launching small power boats, etc you can use it. I did my 30 mast that way. The 27 mast likely weighs 100 lbs or a little more at most. Some people have used small 2X4 frameworks to raise and lower the mast on a 27.

 

[Joe]

A-Frame....

If you don't have access to a local marina crane, or you can't find a powered crane for less that 200 bucks round-trip, then consider building an A-frame gizmo that would allow you and a couple of friends to drop the mast right at the dock. Go to the following web address for a complete description with photos and plans for such a device.http://member.aol.come/bobdeurer/mod-r3.htmEither way you decide, it is best done while the boat is still in the water alongside a dock. Access is much easier.