mast from wood to aluminum

[county]

Hi,
If anyone has information regarding what is involved in changing over from a wood mast to an aluminum one I would appreciate some insight
The vessel is a Mao Ta 36 deck stepped mast

Thanks

[Cheechako]

Basically just getting a mast that is close to your wood mast height, gooseneck location, boom length etc. Other considerations:
Winches on mast?
No of halyards
Pin size of the rigging you have to match the new mast tang pin size.
Mast crossection... not that much of a science really... they only make so many extrusion sizes. If the extruded mast you get came off a boat in your size/displacement range you are likely good to go.
If your old boat is a masthead rig (not fractional rig) get a mast that is also like yours. and vice versa.
Spreader location can vary quite a bit.... :guessing +/- 1-2 ft.
Spreader length should probably be close to same or longer.
Mast base. You need one to match your new mast.
Keel stepped? You need to make sure the hole in your boat will allow your new mast through!
You will need to rechock the mast into the hole in your cabin if keel stepped.

Maybe some others will improve the list.....

[Delancey]

"The Complete Rigger's Apprentice" by Brion Toss has all kind of juicey info for ya. $22 on Amazon.


The Complete Rigger's Apprentice: Tools and Techniques for Modern and Traditional Rigging:Amazon:Books

BTW, September 2012 Join Date and it's your first post? Welcome!

[ssanzone]

fast forward a bit... your mast step needs to be like aluminum too.

-s

[Blue Stocking]

Older boats with short W/Ls and long overhangs used the heavier spar to get them over on their lines. Changing to a lighter spar was not always beneficial. Boats like mine 41 LOD,28 WLL have indicated different levels of reward after the change.

[county]

Thank you all for your comments

I had been meaning to order Brion Toss's book for some time now and don't know why I never did, its been ordered now. Thanks for the reminder!