P165 mast step

[Eddie C]

While lowering the mast a few days ago the 2 back screws and the center screw popped out of the mast step. I'm sure that means the front 2 are stripped too. Haven't delved into it yet but wondered if anyone knows if the fiberglass pedestal under the mast step is solid fiberglass or if there is a wood core. If there is a core then I presume it has likely gotten damp at some point. Hopefully it is not cored but, if it is, then it will require some serious repair. I'm hoping someone has some firsthand experience they can share. Thanks in advance. Eddie C

[eaglecreeksailor22]

Eddie, close inspection of the threads of the popped screws may hold the answer. Just a thought, Good luck.

[Brian N.]

Eddie - I had a conversation with Bill at precision many years ago about backing plates, cores and such. As I recall the mast step is screwed into a wood core. Same with cleats. The idea is that if the mast falls, it will rip out screws rather than chunks of fiberglass. I found that when I added cleats, I drilled into a wood core. I then coated the screws with adhesive and added a bead under the cleat. Been rock solid since 2008. As a caveat, even during sailing season my boat lives under a tarp, so it stays dry.

Addressing your situation: I would remove the mast step and open up the holes a bit to access the moisture situation and help determine the degree of rot (if any). If it is minimal I would let it dry out, fill with epoxy. It may be necessary to enlarge the holes under the top fiberglass layer to help them dry and remove bad wood.

The tabernacle mostly receives downward pressure. So drilling into the epoxy and securing with new screws should be sufficient. Hopefully you will have just minimal repair.

[Eddie C]

Thanks for the responses. The Precision is under a tarp in the off season so I'm hoping there is no rot.