Trying to understand masts on trawlers

[Jacbuys]

Having come from a powerboat background, having a mast on a trawler is new to me. I have a weather station and lightening protection on top which needs some tightening. In looking at how to accomplish this, I notice that the wiring from the anchor light drops into mast with no attempt to seal the opening. Is this the usual case? Is there some drain hole in the foot of the mast where any water introduced would drain out? Likewise, boom has open areas so I guess I just don't understand how water is supposed to exit. Any help in way of explanations would be appreciated. Thank you.

[AnchorageGuy]

The answer is, it depends. Did the manufacturer provide a drain at the bottom. Sometimes yes and sometimes no. Often if a large fitting is attached to hinge the mast it may not have a drain. In that case. I have found it's best to drill one. If the wiring is not bunched up at the bottom of the mast, any water will eventually evaporate out if no drain. Chuck

[Jacbuys]

Thank you for the reply. I will check situation of drain hole or not this weekend.

[valhalla360]

Usually the base of the mast is open. It may sit flush on a deck step. As long as no one tries to caulk it, the water just seeps out as fast as it comes in. If it sits too flush, it may overwhelm the seepage during heavy rains, if that is a problem, you can drill a couple holes near the base.

[psneeld]

Huge difference between an aluminum mast and a wooden one....some above advice may be irrelevant.


Pictures and or more info is really needed to help

[Jacbuys]

My mast is aluminum

[psneeld]

Normally as long as aluminum masts and booms drain..openings are no big deal.