Mast Supports

The front mast support has a 7" by 2" flat piece of metal folded to a 90 degree angle. A 2' long 1" outside diameter tube is welded on to form a "Y". Two 1" loops are welded on either side of the tube for tiedowns to secure the mast. The crutch is padded to prevent scratching the mast. The crutch is inserted into a slot in the anchor well cover and rests in a socket attached to the wall.

The rear mast support uses two 1" outside diameter tubes with welded cross bracing. The distance between the inside edges of the tubes at the bottom is 6.25". The tubes are straight for the first 22", then bend in slightly so that they are only 4.75" apart at the top. The top of the tubes has an angled cut (about 60 degrees) and a roller is secured between the two tubes. The roller is used when puting the mast up and taking it down. The overall height of the rear crutch assembly is 43.25". Two sturdy cross braces are welded in place. One just below the angle and the other underneath the roller assembly. 1" loops are welded on the outside of the tubes to secure the mast when traveling. The mast support is inserted into fixtures on either side of the rudder assembly.

Both pieces are painted black to match the other hardware. The tube ends are left open to allow water to drain out. The only really critical dimensions are the size of the tube (try it for fit first), clearance of the bottom brace above the tiller, and the height of the front support to clear the bow pulpit. The rear support could be a little taller, but you wouldn't want it too much shorter. You want the mast to clear the cockpit coaming when raising or lowering.

Credits: Scott McCulley