The shims are there to hold the mast reasonably straight until all the rigging is in place and properly tuned. Nothing more.
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Teak Mast Shims ?
How critical are mast shims to keeping the mast on center once all the rigging is properly tuned?
I'm asking because all but a couple of the existing shims currently around the mast are loose to the touch and can be easily slid around. The only reason they're not falling out is because they have an L shaped lip on the top of each shim that keeps them from falling down.
There is currently a thick steel plate at the bottom of the mast that's screwed into the deck from above, (where turning blocks are attached). And there are stainless steel 1"x12"'ish brackets on the port and starboard sides of the mast screwed into that plate that seem to keep the mast centered.
My plan is to fill the gap with Spartite for a water tight seal. But will I need to get new shims that are tighter than the existing ones before I do that. Or can I just get rid of the shims altogether?
If they are necessary... Can I replace them with rubber shims that won't be subject to contraction and expansion from moisture, like the one's I found here at RigRite?
I'm asking because all but a couple of the existing shims currently around the mast are loose to the touch and can be easily slid around. The only reason they're not falling out is because they have an L shaped lip on the top of each shim that keeps them from falling down.
There is currently a thick steel plate at the bottom of the mast that's screwed into the deck from above, (where turning blocks are attached). And there are stainless steel 1"x12"'ish brackets on the port and starboard sides of the mast screwed into that plate that seem to keep the mast centered.
My plan is to fill the gap with Spartite for a water tight seal. But will I need to get new shims that are tighter than the existing ones before I do that. Or can I just get rid of the shims altogether?
If they are necessary... Can I replace them with rubber shims that won't be subject to contraction and expansion from moisture, like the one's I found here at RigRite?
1 - 5 of 5 Posts
I replaced the shims with Spartite 7 years ago...it was an excellent move. Made the mast waterproof and acts like a cork the mast is removed.
Moe
Moe
That was going to be my next question... As long as you lube everything up as per the Spartite instructions. You're saying it adheres to the mast and pops right out and back in again if you need to have the mast pulled?
Or do you have to cut it away from the mast and re-apply if you have to raise the mast for any reason?
Or do you have to cut it away from the mast and re-apply if you have to raise the mast for any reason?
Try this instead. Cheaper and works at LEAST as well.
http://www.sailnet.com/forums/256323-post.html
http://www.sailnet.com/forums/256323-post.html
1 - 5 of 5 Posts
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