trailering mast crutches

[JeffM]

Okay, I tried my best to find the info I know is here, but without success. So, what's the easiest way to make mast supports that will slot into the steps? I've seen someone's done (I thought) with PVC pipe, but can't find it. It looked like a piece of cake, until I realized that 3" pipe is 3" INSIDE diameter, and so won't fit the 3" diam. steps. How do you all transport your masts?

[Tim]

2 inch PVC will work. They are a little loose but you run a bungie over PVC and masts and tie them down to the deck or thwart so they wont rattle around under transport. A straight pipe a tee and two elbows is all you need for each crutch.

[Brent]

Knock the corners off a standard 2 x 4 for a snug secure fit in the 3" hole.

[Charlie Jones]

Here's what I did on my sharpie. I built them so they'd JUST fit in the mast steps, and then made the notched key to hold it in place. There's one in each mast step and asupport on the stern to hold the mast heads also.

Where the masts ride is lined in leather.

You could do the same thing with PVC pipe and glue some carpet onto the pipe to pad it where the masts ride.

[Gordy Hill]

If you go with the 2" PVC you can use a straight connecter to add on an extra two feet or so when your storing the boat. Then, with the masts raised, a plastic tarp will protect the boat from rain and sun and leave great ventilation at the ends.

[Rob Blackburn]

How about an off cut of the mast tube ie the 80mm one and laminate some some cd ply wood to cut out a "stocks style" mast holder.

Drop 'em in the holes, drop the masts on and some sail ties and off you go.

Rob

[JeffM]

Thanks, all! Gordy, yours is the rig I was thinking of--I specifically remember the 2-part raised crutch for ventilation. I'm leaning toward the 2" pvc, but let you know what I end up doing.