Installing the forward mast without climbing on top of the deck of the CS 17

[Orlandi]

Any ideas on how to install the forward mast single-handed without having to climb on the deck of the CS 17?     

I love the looks of the CS 17 with the two varnished bright decks (forward and aft) connected with the side decks. 

However, for me it could be more practical to get rid of the forward deck in order to be able to install the forward mast without having to climb on top of the deck.  I am not as agile as I used to be. Having to walk on the deck carrying the mast is concerning to me.

The solution probably entails having to remove part or all of the forward deck (?).  But I am afraid that altering the forward bulkhead and (or) the foredeck might affect the boat structurally.

However, I am aware that in some boats, the aft deck has been completely eliminated.

I already bought the CS 17 construction plan but because of this situation I am having second thoughts. 

I thank you for your thoughts and for your input.

[Joe Nelson CS#35]

I step the mast on my CS20 by standing on a small step ladder.  I really dont like being in or on the boat when it is on the trailer.

[Charlie Jones]

The tabernacle plans Graham has for the 20 should do what you want, since you haven't started the boat as yet..

[Designer]

Here is a tabernacle on a Core Sound 15. You still have to get to the base of the mast to spin on a wingnut but it is a lot easier than manhandling the mast into a tube.

[Joe Nelson CS#35]

Not aware of the associated struture, would it be feasible to convert my already built CS 20 to a tabernackle?

[jawilco]

Joe,

Anything is possible with epoxy. You just have to be able to bring yourself to using a saw first. 

[Joe Nelson CS#35]

Jim,

Are you building a Core Sound yet?  We already share the Tolman affliction.

[jawilco]

Joe,

I have the plans for a CS20, and had all good intentions of making saw dust this fall. I hit a financial snag and plans are delayed.

The other problem is that I am questioning if I have made the correct choice in boats. Whenever I see the Princess 22 I think I want to build one.

Life is full of tough choices.

I'm not sure how much a financial jump that is tho from a CS20 to Princess. If anyone has that info I'd like to hear from you.

Are you still going to build a Princess Joe ?

Jim

[Charlie Jones]

I've built both- there's a pretty healthy difference in price. Both in materials and in time. Remember too- the Princess 22 carries a 400 pound cast lead keel.

[jawilco]

Charlie,

I've read about 4K for a CS20 and 10K for a P26.

I'm guessing about 7K for a P22. Am I close ?

[Charlie Jones]

OK- the CS 20 I'm just now finishing ran about 4k without motor, trailer or sails. That's just bare boat but does include hardware and rigging cordages.

I'd put the P 22 at between 8 and 9 today and the P26 is gonna run closer to 11 than 10. Maybe a bit more. Lot more materials involved and prices are going UP.

One thing I will tell you- whatever you decide to build, the more material you buy RIGHT NOW, the cheaper the boat will be. Hardware has jumped a LOT in the last year. To the point where my wholesaler here refuses to send out a price book anymore. They just tell you to call for a price on everything.

All metals have increased substantially in costs since the gas prices have risen and ply wood is following as will epoxy.

another good reason to do it now ;D ;D

[jawilco]

Whap!

That's the sound of reality slapping me in the face.

The CS20 looks like a fine choice after all.

Thanks for the responses.

Hey Ray,

Are the plywood prices you spoke of earlier down east for a dealer or can John q. Public walk in off the street and buy ? The reason I ask is, I live near Atlantic Plywood here in Mass., but they will only sell to a business with a tax id.

Jim

[ebenton99]

Hello Jim

Boulter Plywood http://www.boulterplywood.com/ located in Somerville MA (617) 666-1340 has boat building plywoods, check their products page. They will sell to anyone, unknown how their prices compare to Maine Coast.

Ed

[jawilco]

[jawilco]

Boulter seems high to me as well.

Of course I'd rather pay as little as possible if possible.

[Charlie Jones]

Those are not unreasonable prices at all. About what I pay for the same stuff in Houston, but I have to drive 150 miles each way. PLUS driving in Houston

I can tell you from sad past experience- be SURE you get all you need on the original order- shipping a single sheet of plywood can get REALLY expensive. I miscalculated once and had to order a single 4 x 12 sheet - WOW- the shipping and packing was more than the ply!!!

[jawilco]

Maine Coast is running a special on 6mm for 58.50.

If you're buying more than a couple of sheets the total cost difference can be substantial in short order.