Wooden Mast

[andye]

Hi All

Have picked up a £50 special from ebay - an old OK with wooden mast. Boat floats so no toasted marshmallows yet.
Mast needs some TLC, what would be the best thing to treat it with as it has a lot of bend and am unsure varnish would be the best. it currently seems to have a stain and possible oil treatment(?)

Any guidance gratefully recieved

[PeterV]

My wooden Finn mast is varnished and that's fine. Finn mast were always varnished in my youth too so I wouldn't worry about doing anyhting else.

[andye]

Thanks Peter

[chris]

check the glued joined are 100% sound - from one who has a reputation for breaking masts.
PS aerolite has a 40yr. life which is possibly what was used.
I have an old OK sail if it's any use to you. Sound and with an elastic luff.
Chris

[andye]

Chris

Joints look ok but will double check.
Sail would be most welcome as current one has more patches than a quilt!!

[chris]

where in the world are you?
I shall be at Roadford, Putney, Bough Beech in the next few weeks.
Chris

[andye]

Chris

Bristol, sailing from Saltford. Job takes me over most of the country so possible to meet you sometime

[chris]

I'm in Frome so not far away. ring 01373 461430 if you are coming this way.
Chris

[Mercurial]

Chris - I am sure you'll get to know Andy quite well in the future as he's the one I have selected to take on my cherished Merc once I leg it over the horizon to open up the CVRDA downunder. I will be briefing him thoroughly on not just classic events, but how best to stuff Shearwater in our little Alkmaar clashes

As an update - Sue's just gone off to take up a new job trying to stop climate change down there, leaving me to do the packing . I aim to finally depart by mid Sept at the latest (when she's booked to come back to get me) I negotiated this timing of things so I can get to Roadford for the 10th ann bash. More than likely won't have a boat by then but I can lend a hand at something I guess.

[chris]

Hi Bob. Good to hear that the Merc is going to good home - just as long as he's a bit slower please! - nice to know it it staying local too. I'm hoping to get my Albacore and Merlin 6 to Roadford so there could be a spare boat and you are welcome to sail one if free. Daughter/son-in-law might be able to crew. Just a thought. As for the Alkmaar trophy...I shall miss being stuffed!

[Pat]

Good to know we'll still have a proper boat to race the Alkmaar against!
Chris, shall we reserve the bottom deck of the double trailer for your Alb to Roadford?
Provided she's less than 6ft wide of course.

[chris]

Yes please Pat.