Cutting inspection "hole" in mast - possible, or downright stupid?

[johnphilip]

Be gentle with me I'm thinking of below decks at a convenient height for working access.
Is it possible, without weakening the mast, to cut out a small (maximum "fist" size) inspection hole in the side or front or rear and then have a stout cover-plate well-bolted on to the mast.
My keel stepped mast contains halyards coax-cable and lighting cables. Something is in the wrong place and "tings" right next to my ear when I'm in my bunk. It is infuriating and sleep-depriving.

Leaving aside the obvious such as non-corroding metals/electrolytic action, shape-conforming "plate" etc, would this foolishly/dangerously weaken the mast?

Any ideas/suggestions of how to do it, assuming it would be safe/possible/practical? And if so,at what height between deck-head and cabin sole?


Many thanks for advice, one way and/or the other.

I would not consider a hole approaching your suggested size. I cite an example as the reason why. Our Elan 333 like all the keel stepped mast versions had a hole cut at deck level for cables to enter the mast, probably 30mm diameter. I understand that some of the hard raced boats found cracks spreading from this hole and I am not sure if mast loss resulted but survey demand for a replacement of the spar I did hear of. Our boat has no sign of any cracking, possibly for lack of hard racing and spinnaker pressures but enough of a warning to be cautious about any cutting into the mast. Possibly exacerbated by the hole being at deck level and a point with high bending stresses. I attach a photo from an old Facebook report.

 

[Daydream believer]

How about cutting 2 small round or even halyard sized slots so you can see in then poking a bent coat hanger in a back on itself. May need a softer wire to get it to come out of the hole this now allows you to add a draw cord or cable tie toi it so that , with a bit of luck you can lasso the offending cable & pull it tight to one side of the mast