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Sreader bracket retrofit installation

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georgiaboater
1st Mate

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USA
72 Posts

Initially Posted - 07/19/2005 : 23:30:17

One of my original spreader brackets recently cracked when steping down my mast and as CD suggested, I obtained the spreader bracket retrofit kit to replace it (actually to replace both brackets).
In surveying the new part(s) and instructions, I note there are two "compression tubes" to be used..inserted in the mast, as you will to mount the new brackets. My question is....how does one get these compression tubes (1) into the mast at the point of spreader bracket to do this retrofit (2) how are they held in place till the new bolts can be slipped through and (3)does a new hole have to be drilled in mast for either one of these tube/bolts.....I hope not as it seems this would seriously compromise the mast.

My boat is 300 miles from here so I could not just run out and check the mast.

Any one who has done this job successfully and would care to respond would be very greatly appreciated.

Marshall P

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ClamBeach
Master Marine Consultant

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3072 Posts

Response Posted - 07/19/2005 : 23:58:55

I used a long piece of wood... about 3/4" thick by 2" by 20' long or so... cut a 'V' in the end and used some heavy masking tape to hold the compression tube in the 'V'. (I think a piece of 3/4" PVC conduit would work well too.)

I removed the masthead fitting and pushed the compression tube down the mast from the top. (note: I had to do a little filing on the tube to get it to go down the mast 'just snug'. Once the tube was in place and a bolt was placed through it, a twist on the push pole tore the tape and released the compression tube.

Having somebody as a 'spotter' to tell you when the tube is lined up with the holes in the mast is darn near essential.

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Leon Sisson
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
1893 Posts

Response Posted - 07/20/2005 : 00:38:25

Marshall,

Here's a [[url="http://www.catalina25-250.org/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=8452"]link[/url]] to a previous thread on spreader base upgrade installation, and here's [[url="http://www.catalina25-250.org/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=9240"]another[/url]].

You might save yourself some work by reading them.

-- Leon Sisson

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georgiaboater
1st Mate

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USA
72 Posts

Response Posted - 07/21/2005 : 21:17:13

Thanks guys......and thanks to everyone who gave the historical perspective to this back in March.

You've convinced me to seek out a veteran or master rigger at one of the Pennsy boat yards, have this done professionally and, probably save both my sanity, heart and marriage in the process

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georgiaboater
1st Mate

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USA
72 Posts

Response Posted - 07/21/2005 : 21:17:26

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Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.