Repair Mast Tube Base; Invitation 3.8

SeaBee

New Member
After pulling out the boat and removing drain screw yesterday, a very large volume of water came out. I searched the hull and found no obvious cracks that would allow that much water in in two hours on the water. There are a few gel coat cracks but nothing too concerning.

After de-rigging I poured a bucket of water into the mast tube and it disappeared almost instantly I to the hull. Could this be where the water is getting in? It was a choppy day and there was water coming over the bow a few times but not enough I think to put that much water into the hull. Despite this likely not being the big culprit, this needs to be repaired and would appreciate any tips. I saw the other mast repair topic on the front page and will use as much of that info as I can.

Now I'm left thinking the water might be getting in around the centreboard pocket. I see no cracks or gaps in there, so is there any good way to test the integrity of the pocket?

It's also important to note that this isn't on a Laser but an Invitation 3.8 which I guess is similar, but there are no forums I've found for this boat. Hopefully you guys will welcome me regardless. ;)
 
It sounds like the bottom of the mast tube has been ground away by the mast rotating. It was a common occurrence with Lasers and only fixed once the builders put a stainless plate in the bottom of the mast tube.

Check this thread for how-to
http://sailingforums.com/threads/leaky-mast-step.14366/

There are a many more threads on this if you use the search function, you'll find them.

As far as additional leaks
http://sailingforums.com/threads/taking-on-water.26497/
and search on "soapy water" to bring up other threads that explain how to find leaks with soapy water
 

Back
Top