srm wrote:
That dent/crease in the mast would be a major concern. It think it would unquestionably fail in a high wind/double trap situation. You definitely want to find a replacement mast or plan to only sail on starboard tack....
sm
MBounds wrote:
That is a definite concern. Not only will the mast crumple in half and come down, it will likely shred the sail in the process. The sharp ends of the mast are a serious hazard - to you and the boat.
You need to replace that mast ASAP.
srm wrote:
That dent/crease in the mast would be a major concern. It think it would unquestionably fail in a high wind/double trap situation. You definitely want to find a replacement mast or plan to only sail on starboard tack....
sm
Roy wrote:
Good job finding a boat you could afford, I had one exactly like it, sailed it for 20 years before trading it off on my Getaway. I do think the mast is toast, thats a mean dent and the aluminum extruded mast finds it strength in the shape. It will be real weak in the area where the dent is. It also looks like the fit where the com tip is ,,is not quite right, like the glue has let go or something. Maybe you could find a used mast for a good price somewhere. Anyway should be a real fun boat to sail.
To everyone who was worried about my mast. I did realize the mast had issues I did however sail twice with it. After the second time the comptip joint got worse and I began the search for a great deal on a used mast. I found that deal and bought the mast today and sailed it. The new mast I scored is a 2007 mast from a guy who use to race Hobies, and I managed to get it for a great price of $200. I am very happy with my purchase.
As for sailing today, the conditions weren't too great. Here's how it went down. (Note nothing broke or anything bad, just was not a very good sailing day.)
1. Who I bought the mast from recommended Hammerman Beach.
2. We rigged the boat quickly and easily on the beach.
3. I went to grab life jackets from the sail box and I saw none and realized I forgot to put them in there.
4. There was a rental boat place we tried to borrow life jackets from but they were closed.
5. Ended up going to Walmart to buy some cheap life jackets.
6. Finally got onto the water but the wind had died down a bit and we were hardly moving. Not even enough wind to push the jib across the mast (see pictures.)
7. Had to paddle a bit to speed up going back to shore.
8. Got back to shore, de-rigged and went home.
Overall it was a good day, getting the mast being the main focus, but even the pretty lame sailing was fun. As for the life jackets, I don't think I'll be forgetting them again. Now I just need to mount my mast bob to my new mast today or tomorrow.
EDIT: Also I somehow managed to put the rudders on reversed. *facepalm*
