old one design mast replacement
Question
I have an old One Design but the mast is missing. It is in great shape and have two sais, two booms, two daggerboards and two mast feet. I dont know what I can get to replace the mast. The mast sleeves on the sails are 420cm long & the diameter on the mast universal feet is approx 48mm on one and approx 41mm on the other. Please give me some options for new masts.
Thanx for your time
Answer
Hey Kurt,
On the bottom of the sails there should be some measurements that will determine what size mast you need. It will be the 'luff' for length of mast. MCS will be the stiffness you need. If you have a mast extension, then pick a mast that will fit the smaller sail and use the extension for the larger sail. No extension, fit the larger sail and the smaller sail will just rig a bit higher on the foot.
As for stiffness, going up or down one number (MCS range is 24-29) will usually work for most sails. Look for something closer to the larger sail as a larger sail usually wants a stiffer mast than a smaller sail.
It sounds like you may have a standard mast foot (the 48mm) and possibly a windsurf Hawaii base (the 41mm). The standard will fit any standard mast extension and mast. The windsurf Hawaii will only fit a windsurf Hawaii extension, but the extension will fit a standard mast. Do NOT get a RDM (reduced diameter mast) or 'skinny' mast or you will have to buy a 'skinny' base/extension.
You should be able to find used masts on ebay or your local craigslist. There are also online shops that sell used gear, just google 'used windsurf masts'.
Hope this helps.
Keep on sailing,
Windlover
One Design mast
Mistral Malibu