Shortening of mast

Hello Lars and others,

I have quite some corrosion on the mast underneath the various items, such as the gooseneck, rodkicker etc. Since I have a tall rig I was wondering if it would be an option to cut about 0,70 mtrs of the bottom of the mast to the same length as the one ton rig. And then to move gooseneck and other items also 0.70 mtr upwards on the mast (the old gooseneck holes then will be below deck and out of sight).

It would also mean to have sails and standing rigging adjusted.

What is your opinion ? Could it be done ? Are there any special things to consider ?

As a few of you might know, I have added a 350 kg bulb to obtain the same stabiltiy as a one ton rig 38. This idea would also mean that I can remove that bulb.

Any ideas and opinions are most welcome.

best regards,

Jan

swan38/110/yulunga

Dear Jan
Would suggest that the corroded areas should be repaired, and this can be done either by adding doublers on the inside, or welding in new pieces. If this is done neatly it would not be visible, and there is no need to shorten the mast.
Kind regards
Lars

Dear Lars,

Thank you very much for your advice.
I was thinking of combining my issues: stability and corrosion. And therefore shortening the mast, so I can remove the bulb.
Can the mast be shortened and wat things are to consider ?
Or would you advise against that option ?

Best regards,
Jan

Dear Jan
There are 81 S38's with tall rigs, and 3 with extra tall rigs, and they do not have bulbs. Further, the sails remain flatter these days, and do not heel the boat as much.
Based on this I would suggest that you can remove the bulb if this is your preference, and keep the tall rig.
Kind regards and Happy New Year!
Lars

Dear Lars,
Ok Lars, your opinion on this is very clear.
I rest my case.
Very best wishes for 2014 to you too !
Kind regards,
Jan

Jan, you could also consider shortening the mast and increasing the height of the mast step by same amount.

John B

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