Mast Checks Part 1

Joe — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 23:57:07 +0000

Take the time to give your rig a proper check.

Check forstay and backstay toggles, clevis pins and plit pins for security
Check all tang bolts T-bar and shroud terminal backing plates for wear and possible cracking, ensuring the fastenings are secure
Examine all swage terminals and make sure there are no cracks, especially on the inside of T- and shroud-type terminals. Make sure there is no sign of the wire either pulling out of the terminal or any broken strands where the wire exits the terminal. Lubricate all turn-buckle threads with light oil or grease; this is especially necessary on turn-buckles with stainless bodies to prevent galling, a condition where the threads become abrasive and seize together.

Corrosion on the mast foot

Check spreaders and their mountings brackets for security on the mast.
Check the goose neck for security, making sure there is no wear either on the pivot bolt or the toggle. If there is excessive vertical moment fit either stainless steel or nylon washers onto the bolt above and below the toggle to take up the loose play
Check round halyard exit plates for any signs of cracking of the spar wall; this is especially necessary on performance fractional rigs set up with large amounts of pre-bend
On keel-stepped masts check the rubber desk seal gaiter to make sure it hasn’t perished, also checking to make sure any drain holes are clear and that the gaiter is not covering them
Check to make sure any drain holes in the mast are clear
Check the mast step is securely fastened to the deck or floor

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