Anonymous wrote:
A slightly heavier mast may help to soften the motion of the boat when at anchor. If the mast is too light it leads to a much jerkier action when at anchor.
The downside of a heavier mast is that it is more difficult to raise it. This could be a significant factor if your boat is trailed regularly and has to be rigged and derigged on a regular basis.
All the best with the project, David.
Thank you David! We don't want to trailer the boat that often. So that sounds good.
Anonymous wrote:
Have you any idea what the existing mast and rigging weigh? Your new sail will probably be lighter than the existing mainsail and genoa and you presently have a hefty boom (and maybe some poles).
I think you are right. Never thought about to weigh the old mast, that would eliminate the concerns probably easily :)
Anonymous wrote:
Weaverbird, of similar size, has a 165mm/76mm x 3mm tapered tube for a mast, and (bare) it weighs 36Kg. In comparison, I weighed the old bermudan mast, including standing and running rigging and a furling headstay, and that was about 41Kg. So yes, the 177mm tube is just a little larger and heavier than strictly necessary, but not unduly so.
When I converted Tystie from a ketch back to a sloop, the mizzen mast, which is 177mm dia, was passed over to Rob and Maren to use in converting Blondie to junk rig. She is only 21.5ft long, and she seems to be quite happy, so I think your Westerly 22 would be, too.
Thanks again for your answer, David. I think we will take the pole and start building the mast step and partners ...