Spreader attachment to mast... ?

[ianabc]

The single spreaders on the used mast I purchased are inserted into cast aluminium bases, attached with POP RIVETS ! to the mast.

There are no through mast bolts or tubes to spread the load from one side of the mast to the other.

My question is...should I drill the mast for large stainless steel bolts or use pipe and huge washers to spread the load on the mast wall?

Advice from anyone who has worked on anything similar appreciated....

Back watching the "new" eagle in the tree top nest close to the boat being fed by its parents!

Oh to have the boat in the water and fish for salmon....

<hr width=100% size=1>Building a steel sailboat in Comox, B.C. Canada.

 

[snowleopard]

we can't tell from your profile what size the boat is though if it's steel it can't be too small.

pop rivets are pretty normal for attachments to a mast so as long as they are monel i wouldn't worry about it. the only potential problem would be the possibility of the thrust causing the mast wall to kink but a reasonable sized base plate for the spreader would distribute the load.

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[boatless]

If it's a swept spreader fractional you are right to be concerned. Mast compression has caused mast failure a number of times. Cure I've seen was an SS bar thru mast with bolts through spreader/plate/spreader.

Worst designs had a hole in the mast to receve a lump on the inside of the spreader root fitting.

Rivets are fine though.

<hr width=100% size=1>my opinion is complete rubbish, probably.

 

[Joe_Cole]

As I understand it this is quite normal. Presumably your used mast is in one piece, so it has worked quite satisfactorily before /forums/images/icons/smile.gif

Joe

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[Boathook]

Re: Spreader attachment to mast... ? re ianabc

Our spreaders are pop rivited on the same as yours by the description. It is a common method on a lot of cruising boats.

If you are worried get it checked by a reputable rigger or surveyor.

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