Mast bent

Lisa Johnson

New Member
I rolled my sunfish this weekend and I was stuck in the mud. We had to be towed out to deeper water and when we returned we saw that the mast is bent slightly at he bast. Is there a good way to fix this? Any suggestions would be appreciated.
 
Salt water or fresh?

"Bent", as in rolling it on the garage floor to check it? Or is there a noticeable crease or fold?

Yes, you can straighten it—some have used two poplar trees growing closely together. ;) But remember, the mast's strength will be compromised upon re-straightening it. Afterwards, you should also switch ends, so the "repaired part" is "up". Because of their length, shipping a new mast is expensive, so consider putting a "sleeve" inside your old mast at the point that was stressed.

I've checked "Search" at this forum, so check here for advice on sleeves. (Lots of discussions).

http://sailingforums.com/search/8750411/?q=sleeve&o=date&c[node]=21

If you're in a salty environment, the best fix is to buy a new one. I know something about Sunfish masts (see below photo of a fractured mast), and have three spares, in case you're in New Hampshire.

:)

GEDC0014.JPG
 
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Is anyone aware of the specs on the aluminum used for mast and booms? I bought a '73 yesterday and the upper boom had been bent and welded.....it's still bent. I plan on replacing but am thinking about buying a blank piece of tube at a welding supply house and recycling the end caps and hardware from the bent one, save a bit of money on shipping.
 
Mast -

Style: Round Tube
Finish: Clear Anodized
Length: 10' (3.05 m)
OD: 2-1/4" (57.15 mm)
Wall Thickness: .083" (2.11 mm)


Spars -

Style: Round Tube
Finish: Clear Anodized
Length: 13' 8" (4.17 m)
OD 1-1/2" (38.1 mm)
Wall Thickness: .065" (1.65 mm)
 
I rolled my sunfish this weekend and I was stuck in the mud. We had to be towed out to deeper water and when we returned we saw that the mast is bent slightly at he bast. Is there a good way to fix this? Any suggestions would be appreciated.
I came across an article in the magazine "Small Craft Advice" that mentioned that a lateen sail (like Sunfish)benefits from a mast that is raked forward. You could reverse the existing (bent) mast's ends, keeping in mind to orient the bend part "leaning" forward. :)
 

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