Luff Groove Repair

zipgun

New Member
I bought a capri. First boat. Got a great deal and this might be why. The luff groove is spread about 15" below the top of the mast. Is it possible to pinch this back in some way? I will slide a bar in the groove to insure it doesn't close too much. But just wondering if there is any ideas on what to use. heating ect. This is my fist post and glad to see you guys are here. Thanks.
 
Best to ask a pro

It's probably repairable, but I would suggest you talk to a metal expert.
Get the opinion of a welding shop or similar. I suppose with your insertion of a metal rod to prevent over correction, a propane torch and a little massaging with a wooden hammer might do the trick.

Don't be afraid of it, it's just aluminum.

Steve B.
 
Closing the gap.

Hi,
I agree with checking with an aluminum welder about closing the gap. The mast is probably anodized and hardened. Too much heat, an overly agressive wooden hammer and improper cooling could change the charcteristics of the material.
You did not mention the width of the opening nor the length. This will also have an influence on the repair and potential cost.
Saltyb
 
I have a Capri 14.2k circa 1992 (I think) hull # 97.
The mast is aluminum, no anodizing.
I've had numerous boats, some small power and 3 sailboats.
I've sailed blue water on a couple of boats and learned a lot from my experiences.

Trust a metal guy's advice. You're not crossing an ocean.

Steve B.
 
got my groove on!

Good news, it seems to be going my why. The spead was pretty wide, probably a half inch at it's worst. Maybe 15 to 18 inchs from start to finish. (not sure how something like that happened in the first place, without bending the mast itself) I start with 2 visegrips that have a "C" type clamp on the end with pivoting feet. they easily fit around the mast. I placed some steel slats about 1" by 1/8" and 16" long along the edge. heated the luff groove with a heat gun and clapped the slats on each side of the groove. It is slow going but can see huge improvements . Worked about 2 hours on it yesterday, figure another 2 and I'll be done. With I would have photographed before and after :( Thanks for your responses guys.
 
Good Show!!
I like your controlled approach better than hammer whacking. Let us know how it turns out.
GT
 

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