mast storage and transport

[sscoville]

I'm trying to decide how I will transport my masts while trailering my BRS 17 and how I will stow them when the trailer is parked.  I've seen photos of Gordy Hill's PVC brackets and Graham's wooden ones.  Is there any consensus on the best or worst systems/methods?  My masts are solid wood.  Pics would be great.

[Tom Lathrop]

The best all round system I have found for these boats is to make a crutch for the two mast locations and one mounted on the transom.  All are to be at the same height equal to about 12" above the foredeck.  If you roll the sails on the masts, I like to make a single Sunbrella sock to cover both masts and secure the  combination on the crutches for travel.  For storage, I lay a tarp over the boat with the masts acting as a ridge pole. 

For masts with sail tracks, the masts should be set in separate notches to keep them from rubbing on each other.  Cushion the notches at the top of the crutches with carpet.

Have been using this system for over 40 years and many, many miles with no problems.

[sscoville]

Thanks Tom.  How do you mount the crutch to the transom?

[Tom Lathrop]

The transom crutch is a sort of saddle over the top of the transom and ted down to the rudder gudgeons.  Everything that can rub is cushioned with carpet.  I use a samson post on the bow instead of cleats and a bow eye.  Had to raise the winch quite a bit of course to get a fair lead for the bow tie down.

I also like to mount a sheet of 1/2" treated plywood on the trailer which makes a  secure place to store sprits, rudder and tiller for trailering.  It also makes secure footing if you need to get on the trailer for launching or retrieving the boat.