[Snboard976]

I just purchased an Air Breeze wind generator. I am planning to install it 2/3 of the way up the mizzen mast.

I have seen a few mounts for sale on the internet and was wondering if anyone had a mount that they would recommend.

 

[sailingdog]

Exactly how do you plan on installing it 2/3 of the way up the mizzen mast. The wind genny has to be able to rotate 360˚, to take advantage of the wind properly. Mounting atop the mizzen would make far more sense.

 

[Snboard976]

I agree that it would be ideal to have the wind gen be able to rotate 360 degrees. I don't really like the idea of the top of the mizzen mast because it would require removing a TV antenna and fabricating a piece on the top of the mast to make it flat. It is also more difficult to install and service and puts more stress on the rig.

I found one custom design mount that allows 360 degrees of rotation on the front of the mizzen mast. (photo below)

There are only two photos of commercially available mounts that I could find. One is the vibrating isolating mount from SV hotwire (makers of the the KISS.)

The other is from Emarineinc.com.

There is another mount sold by hamiltonferris, but I don't know the specs on it.

The KISS mount doesn't allow 360 degree rotation, but it would be nice to reduce the vibration in the rig. It is also the least expensive option.

The Emarine mount does allow complete rotation, but it doesn't look as robust and it is much more expensive.

Still looking for that perfect mount that will allow 360 degree rotation on the front of the mizzen mast and someone that has seen it in action.

 

[sailingdog]

That adds a lot more weight aloft, but should be doable. The blade diameter is only 46", so a three foot high clearance on the mount would allow it to rotate 360˚.

 

[christyleigh]

Exactly how do you plan on installing it 2/3 of the way up the mizzen mast. The wind genny has to be able to rotate 360˚, to take advantage of the wind properly. Mounting atop the mizzen would make far more sense.

Gee... Dog... I hate to always be arguing with you but...... Many people (Nauticats especially) mount on the mizzen. When you think about it the answer is simple. Except for a broad reach or down wind the only place the boat won't be pointed very close to the wind is when at dock when you have Shore Power any way. On a mooring or at anchor close to perfect. That's where I'll do my.... agreed - Less Than Perfect - install myself one of these days - with BiG Solar Panels on the top of the davits to add to the amps.

 

[Snboard976]

Installation of Mizzen Mount Bracket

I decided to go with a bracket from Hamilton Ferris that will allow my Air Breeze to rotate 360 degrees. Now the question is, is it okay to have the stainless steel bracket in direct contact with the aluminum mast? Ditto for the stainless steel screws that will be tapped through the mast and bracket.

 

[sailingdog]

I'd put a thin plastic isolation layer between the bracket and the mast, think milk carton plastic... and use LanoCote or TefGel on the screws.

I decided to go with a bracket from Hamilton Ferris that will allow my Air Breeze to rotate 360 degrees. Now the question is, is it okay to have the stainless steel bracket in direct contact with the aluminum mast? Ditto for the stainless steel screws that will be tapped through the mast and bracket.