Likely a dumb question about mast holder thing

A 79 I just bought has a device use to cradle the mast when down. This device is attached to the track on the rear crossbar. Trouble is, it does not seem to come off. It sits a few inches from the end of the track. I'm thinking this thing is supposed to be removed to sail right? Sounds good, but this device seems to be locked in the track, solidly attached.

I've not even sailed this yet...soon.. still figuring it all out.

Thanks for your patience with these rudimentary questions.

-jf

You are correct... The mast cradle is supposed to be removed while sailing. At the same time it should not be stuck in the track - It should come off with out much trouble - actually it should fall off by itself.
There is the main traveler car - this thing runs in the track and is of course an essential part of the traveler.
There are many different designs of mast cradles - you might want to post a picture, so we know which one you have.

Patrick

I'm going to venture a guess, the mast holder is secured by two bolts. You have to turn the bolt to allow the two tabs to move through the narrrow track. The head of the bolts is like a "T". Twist it until the "T" can slide out on each side.

Hammond,

you are correct. The bolts do come right out with a half turn, but the rest of the plastic thing does not budge. I can completely remove the bolts no problem. I'm going to try progressively tapping the thing sideways with a rubber mallet tomorrow.

Try wedging a flat blade screwdriver under the center part. Be careful not to damage the track, but there shouldn't be anything else holding it in there. Maybe the plastic decayed and swelled!!??!! Are there any notches in the track? Maybe someone modified the thing with a pin that slots into the track. If that is the case, you will have to remove a couple of rivets out of one end of the track and bang it out the end similar to removing the traveler car.

Good luck!

By the way, when you are done, buy a trailer mounted mast crutch. They are stronger and work better.