Bent spar!

sophijo

New Member
I dumped my Fish on a sandbar in heavy weather and bent the upper spar at midpoint. Its about 4" out from true. No creases/rolls. Couple of questions: is it junk? should I attempt to straighten it (it sails)? will it fail and impale me through the larynx? :D

Thanks
Dave
 
I'd give it a try, but don't try for perfection as that will weaken it.

You'll have to "overbend" it on some kind of curved frame, and don't return to the same spot to try to make it perfect. (It will work-harden and become weak right at that point.)

Maybe slide the spar into a piece of PVC pipe, and clamp it in a vice? (Leave an inch or two of PVC sticking out to spread the force required.)

Do a little bit at a time, and it should get you to the next sandbar in heavy weather! :D
 
simple fix: what about turning the bend down and compencating for the bend with sail ties. Just a thought...Mike
 
Not a bad idea Mike...it is a recreational sailer. I think I'll try a gentle "straighten" (previous post) and live with what I get. BTW...just missed a cragslist deal for sail, spars and mast for $75!:rolleyes:
 

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