Downeaster Yachts.com - Topic: How is the mast stepped on a DE 45?

Jolly Roger on How is the mast stepped on a DE 45?

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 21:26:09 -0500

Hi Bob,

Thanks for your reply. I’m going through the same process you did to replace the holding tank, but I want to reposition the main further aft, as a schooner mainmast. This is why I wondered about lifting the mast because there is no visible mast step on these boats. I think I will do what you did, and make a nylon mast step grommet, but bigger, to spread the load a bit.

Regards ROGER.

Eolian on How is the mast stepped on a DE 45?

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 12:53:42 -0500

Jolly Roger said:

Could anyone please tell me how the main mast on a Down East 45 was stepped on the keel? The heel of my mast just seems to be sitting on the keel, with no visible keeson plate to locate it. I would hate to lift the mast and find some internal locator was still holding it to the keel.[Image Can Not Be Found]

Hi Jolly -

There is a mast step under the very butt of the mast. If there is a lot of corrosion down there (as there was on mine), it may not be obvious. See my blog post for more information.

bob

s/v Eolian

DE45 #11

Seattle

Jolly Roger on How is the mast stepped on a DE 45?

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 07:57:21 -0500

Could anyone please tell me how the main mast on a Down East 45 was stepped on the keel? The heel of my mast just seems to be sitting on the keel, with no visible keeson plate to locate it. I would hate to lift the mast and find some internal locator was still holding it to the keel.[Image Can Not Be Found]