Author Topic: mast bend  (Read 2890 times)

Tim Fox

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mast bend
« on: December 06, 2020, 10:18:57 PM »
My forestay came loose which resulted in my mast crashing down. After untangling everything, the result was a slight bend (5 degrees?) in the mast column about 4 to 6 feet from the base. I'm not sure if I should just re-rig and hope for the best or if I should replace the mast? I am also wondering if the addition of a third shroud on the lower "heavy weather" connectors would help as they appear to be about the same height as the mid point of the mast bend. I've seen some of the videos of masts breaking and I'm not looking forward to that. I usually don't sail in winds above about 15mph but we all have those situations when we get into gusts that are higher than expected. This is my first year owning a U20 and only my third year sailing so go easy on me :) Also this is my first post on the forum. Tim 

Travis Gregory

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Re: mast bend
« Reply #1 on: December 07, 2020, 02:46:10 AM »
Sorry Tim, that sounds awful.  It's never fun when damage occurs.

You can find Keith Ziegler on the forum and PM him.  He has some used masts for sale.

If you want a professional opinion on the subject you might try Buzz Ballinger. 

The mast, rigging and 'high wind kits' are available from Ballenger Spars (Watsonville, Ca.)  831-763-1196

Keith Ziegler

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Re: mast bend
« Reply #2 on: December 07, 2020, 02:00:41 PM »
I still have 4 used masts in my basement in Novi Michigan. 400 each till there gone.
Keith Ziegler
keithrziegler@comcast.net
734-722-3636

Robert Homer

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Re: mast bend
« Reply #3 on: December 08, 2020, 01:18:58 PM »
Buzz from Ballenger is awesome! I replaced all my standing rigging through Buzz and the turnbuckle handles are a big improvement. He ships parts out fast too!

I’ve made a few mistakes raising and lowering my mast, it happens and even more so when sleep deprived.
« Last Edit: December 08, 2020, 01:20:42 PM by Robert Homer »

Tim Fox

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Re: mast bend
« Reply #4 on: December 09, 2020, 08:14:36 PM »
Update.... I don't feel comfortable re-rigging everything with a mast that is less than ideal. I've contacted Buzz Ballinger and he says he's not making any more since the class seems to favor the carbon replacement. So... Mr. Keith... looks like I might be heading to Detroit for Christmas!!!! Thanks for everyone's input. Tim in Tennessee (where powerboats rule :(

Tim Fox

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Re: mast bend
« Reply #5 on: December 10, 2020, 05:35:55 PM »
Just an additional comment for anyone who may be dealing with a mast that is "out of column." I took the bent mast and had it in my garage. I used a winch in an attempt to "unbend" the mast by flexing it in the opposite direction. I was able to straighten it with pressure but when I relaxed the winch pressure, the mast would return to it's bent position. So I kept putting on a little more pressure each time (about 5 times) but the mast would always revert to it's bent shape. On about the 6th time, the mast snapped in two. Lesson learned, the aluminum mast will break before it can be "unbent." Lesson two... inspect the pins and their retaining clips periodically. The pin that came out is the one under the jib furler. You know the one you have to inspect by removing the little cover inside the cabin at the bow? That 2 minute "non-inspection" job has cost me BIG in terms of time, money, and dismasting in moderate winds... plus I lost the race against those pesky Holders in my club. That really makes me mad!