Mast corrosion

[Budini]

Hi guys! I've been reading this forum for a long time but it's my first time posting.

I own a trailer sailer and there is some corrosion on the aluminium mast.

I'd like to know your thoughts on weather the mast is still serviceable/repairable or if it needs immediate replacement.

Thanks!

[Franziska]

Hi.

Where on the mast is that?
Top, bottom, middle, close to fittings?
What kind of boat?
What kind of sailing?

Doesn't look problematic to me from this picture. More of a cosmetic issue.

It may be an indication that it is quite an old mast, which can be problematic if it has gone through an aweful lot of load cycles.
Insurances tend to not like masts much older than 10years, but they can last much much longer.

I'd check the attachment points for fittings to see if there is any corrosion or cracks.

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Budini.
What Franziska said.

[psk125]

You can probably clean it up a bit if it makes you feel better. A coating of wax might prevent the area from spreading.

[Don C L]

My 60 year-old mast has blemishes that look like that and is doing fine. It appears to be on the surface which would not be a problem.
Welcome aboard BTW!

[Jim Cate]

nsurances tend to not like masts much older than 10years,

The ten year rule is commonly applied to standing rigging, but I have never heard of it being applied to spars...never!

I doubt this is a factor.

Jim

[skipmac]

Originally Posted by Jim Cate

The ten year rule is commonly applied to standing rigging, but I have never heard of it being applied to spars...never!

I doubt this is a factor.

Jim

Same here. Insurance company questioned my rigging age but didn't mention the mast at all.