What is a mast boot?
Mast Boots are used on keel-stepped Rigs to help prevent water leakage where the Mast goes through the Deck. They fit around the Mast and cover the Deck Collar flange and Mast Wedges. Mast Boots are designed to be put on the mast prior to stepping.
How do you seal a sailboat mast?
You can seal all of the overlapping seams at the mast with a medium-strength adhesive caulk like 3M 4000 UV. You also can seal any material held in place with hose clamps with butyl caulk (easier for disassembly later). Some cruisers have successfully installed only the plastic sheet as a mast boot.
How do you use Spartite?
SPARTITE creates an integral, structural system between the partners/deck collar and the mast. Simply pour mixed SPARTITE into the space around the mast for a secure tight fitting ring that remains on the mast when it is un-stepped. SPARTITE installation can usually be completed in a few hours.
How are mast boots measured?
2) Using a flexible measuring tape, measure from deck level (outside the ring of your mast collar) a comfortable distance up the mast above your mast wedges. This will be the height of your boot. Be generous in measuring, and then add 3 inches. Total measurement will likely be 8-9 inches.
What are mast partners?
: wood planking or steel plating around a mast hole in a deck to give support to a mast.
What are partners on a sailboat?
The mast partners are the ship’s timbers fitted between deck beams around the opening in the deck where the mast passes through – they are under the deck planking. When the mast is stepped, it is “wedged” in place at deck level, the wedges going between the partners and the mast itself.
What is Spartite?
Spartite is a pre- measured two-part polymer poured into the cavity between the mast and the partners while the mast is in the boat. Each kit comes with complete instructions and materials for the yard or yacht owner to build a simple mold out of even the most complex partners or mast collar.
Why do you put a coin under a mast?
The ceremonial practice is believed to originate from ancient Rome. One theory is that, due to the dangers of early sea travel, the coins were placed under the mast so the crew would be able to cross to the afterlife if the ship were sunk.
How far apart should mast steps be?
Research suggested that steps are typically placed between 375mm and 500mm apart, so I chose to use 450mm spacing as a compromise between cost and comfort.