Compression Post Failure.

[intobluewater]

My first post as a member. Shame it isn't about something more fun.
My partner and I were sailing our (steel) Folkes 39 in around 15-20 knots wind speed when there was a huge bang, like a cannon being shot, and the whole boat shook.
My first impression was that we had broken a shroud but after inspection everything was in place, but slack.
So down come the sails and we go below for a look. Here I find the compression post, which is very rusty, probably due to rainwater incursion from the mast, has collapsed on itself about an inch. From on deck there is no obvious depression.
My question is, do I have to remove the rig when the boat is hauled in the spring, or can I just jack up next to the post, then remove and replace?

[Cheechako]

wow... a steel post did that? must be awful thin tubing..or a lot of rust? anyway, I see no obvious reason you cant leave the rig up... just amke sure it's loose enough when you jack the cabintop up. And of course be careful what's supporting the jack!