Unstepping Mast on 28.5

[campbell]

We need information on how to unstep the mast on a 28.5... Any advice is appreciated, especially if you can advise on step-by-step without hiring a crane... Thanks, campbell

 

[Stephen Ostrander]

mast man

If you don't want to hire a crane, then you better have a gin pole handy, cuz' I wouldn't attempt this witout one. A gin pole is a fixed pole on a dock or shore that has hoisting tackle on it. Most boat yards and some yacht clubs have them, maybe you can find one that will let you use it for an hour or so. Hiring a crane at a boat yard should only cost you $50.00 or so, pretty cheap compared to a new mast or an injured crew member.

 

[John N]

Half way up

You will need to attach a lifting "loop" around the mast at a point half way up the mast (to keep it balanced). Above half way will make it bottom heavy, below half way will make it top heavy. If it is a dual spreader rig, someone will have to climb above the first set of spreaders to attach this loop. A good sturdy line going down to a secure attachment point (winch?, strong gooseneck?) Then you need to lift the mast about 1 foot off the mast step (unless it's keel stepped). Is there a BRIDGE, covered well, or something in the area you can nudge your boat up to and secure it? It would be risky, but an option (that I wouldn't take).

 

[Dave Condon]

Mast raising

Unless you are experienced and have the right equipment, do not attempt this and let a yard handle that for you. I saw the results once of an inexperiencedwho was nearly killed and resulted in damage to the mast and boat. High pricewhen it can be done cheaply safely

 

[Allen]

Don't Forget.....

Whether its you or a crew that lift the mast, don't forget that once the weight is taken off and the mast is only 1 inch above the deck, UNDUE THE VHF ANTENNA or you will rip the coax connection right out. I had a professional crew do my mast and they did not bother to think about that. Needless to say, I had to replace the coax connection which is located in the mast.Allen