Mast - things I should do before it is stepped?

[Roach1948]

OK, my mast is being stepped in a week! Every morning I apply another coat of Epifannes, and whilst doing this ritual it dawned on me that I really can't afforf to forget anything once it is stepped as I really don't want to go up it.

My question is what should I lubricate the brass sail track with to make it maintenance free (and not attarct dirt)? And - Do I need to seize every shackle on it?

 

[Mukes]

If you have a windex - make sure the "arms" are square and the "pointer" is attached! (I will be going up my mast in the near future due to not having the foresight to check same.) /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif

(By the way Tudor YHM)

 

[old_salt]

A Penny dated to the year of her build to step the mast on.

 

[Aja]

Use 'Turbo Gel' on the mast track. This doesn't have to be applied when mast is down though. Just pop a blob above the top slider when you hoist the main for the first time. Remarkable stuff.

I would make sure you seize any shackles at the top of the mast (spinnaker block etc) and cover the seizing with some insulating tape just to make sure it doesn't start ripping things.. this I know from experience.

Donald

 

[SwedishLass]

Test any lights with a meter if you don't have a handy 12v supply, never leave an empty sheave, it's easy to remove a mousing line later if it is not needed. Make sure all lines go the proper side of the spreaders and/or diamonds, especially the closed triangles at the top. Check the sheaves will turn. Finally when lashing running rigging for travel make sure you can reach it when the mast is up. Been there!

 

[Peterduck]

Look for a pressure-pack spray of teflon, usually sold at industrial tool suppliers. Just spray it the wearing surfacesand let it dry; it's like magic! It also works well on the sole of a plane - the plane slides over the wood like it's on an air cushion. 'Tis wunnerful stuff indeed. Another wunnerful stuff is Pro-Mar grease. It only requires a thin smear, but it lasts and lasts. Ideal for sheave pins.
Peter.

 

[Carlotta]

If you have hoops put them on now.