Standing in the shed this morning looking at my broken mast bottoms (3 of) I wondered...
Would it be possible to make an extender out of them (for the bigger sails) by cutting off the base (about 400mm) and a higher section that has an external diameter to suit a SDM mast internal diameter (same length) and sleeving/epoxying it so that it creates a join similar to a mid-mast detail (200mm protruding) but would seat a SDM mast, thus creating an extension that could turn a 430 into a 470, and a 460 into a 500???
as pr would say...
discuss...
Short answer - yes, its a good idea... although, the sail might not right quite as nicely (or it may rig better...).
The problem is that most masts are built with extra reinforcing for the boom clamp, so you will be shifting the booms' mount point, downwards (relative to the actual mast), out of the reinforced zone.
Sail hack, I have made 3 of these and they are awesome. The first one allowed me to use a 7.5 KA Kontrol on a 460 (about 2001). Saved me from having to get a 490 mast. (the others I made for mates)
The boom still fitted on the reinforced area and the fact that the mast was a bit softer than a 490 wasn't a problem as I mainly used it in light winds and it probably helped early planing.
I used a broken 75% mast to make mine, and it was light as a feather. -highly recommended.
Make sure you make it with a decent length ferule for strength, and resin it in.
I think it was Powerex that made one caled the "extender" and it cost about $200 to buy!!
I'll post a Pic
they used to make them for the larger formula sails so you could rig a 12.5m on an extension that flexed instead of stiff alloy, they where 100% carbon and cost alot of cash think they where about 500mm long, north also played with the idea think it was last year a 1 mast fits all concept..
Thanks for the feedback all...looks like I just have to work out the 'how' and I'll be on my way. I knew there was a reason I hung onto them (apart from the fishing rod-holder idea)
Here's one for ya. This was given to me about 8 years ago, still going strong. Only use it with my biggest sail, but that's the most common one I use over summer. Saved buying another mast for 1 sail.
Here's 2 of mine. The extension length is about 38cm plus whatever you add on with your normal adjustable extension.
I don't use them for a 7.5 anymore 'cos a modern 7.5 rigs on a 460 nowadays.
What I do use it for though, is the rare occasions when my wifey wants to have a sail, and we both need a 460 mast. -One of us uses the "super extendo" with my 430! (problem solved)
Calculating the diameter of the ferule to ensure a snug fit, is the only tricky bit.
Good luck
