MikeM

Brent, I am planning on installing an external sail track on my three piece aluminum masts. I understand that you permanently connected your tubing together. I have several questions. 1st, what type of metal did you use for the track itself, e.g., aluminum, stainless, etc? What are the dimensions of the track? What type of sliders did you use? Did you purchase them or make them? Finally, how has your sail track performed? Mike Mochan

Outside of economizing and maximizing the use of the aluminum tubing in the normal lengths it's sold in, is there any reason why one shouldn't use more sections of varying diameter? Specifically, instead of using just three sections for a 21 foot mast, e.g., 3.0", 2.5", and 2.0", why not use five sections of say 3.0", 2.75", 2.5", 2.25", and 2.0"? This would provide for a smoother transition and simulate the taper of a wood mast. Furthermore, if .065 thick walls are used, it should allow for a better fit between the sections. The only possible draw back that I can see might be the fact that there are more section joints. Anybody have any thoughts as I'm ready to build?