Student Driver
New Member
I'm a new owner of an old laser. When I first began sailing this boat it had no cap on the bottom end of the bottom mast spar. So far it hasn't been an issue because the mast sits on top of a metal disk inside the mast step. But on the recommendation of my local dealer I intend to install a cap on the bottom end of the bottom mast spar. My concern lies with water inside the mast. Currently with the bottom spare completely open at the bottom any water taken on at the joint with the top spar during a capsize flows right out of the bottom and the mast step. If I cap the end then the bottom spar won't drain as well. What are some recommendations to limit boat wear and taking on water that would be held aloft inside the mast? Shall I drill holes in the bottom cap and rivet it to the spar? Shall I seal the bottom cap in with silicone marine sealant and do something to the joint with the top spar so that the bottom spar is then water-tight?