Calculate Mast Heel/Step Compression Load?

[bluewater]

How do I calculate the total compressive load on the mast heel/step of a keel stepped cutter?

Relevant info:
The mast is 52 feet from heel to top. It weighs 350#
2 spreader, twin back stays with running backs, 4 lowers, 2 intermediate stays, and cap shrouds, all in 5/16 wire.

I am would like to calculate to the nearest 1000 pounds.

Thanks for your help.

[djmarchand]

Go to the Loos Gauge website. It will give tensile strength and pct of tensile factors for various size stays. Count up the number of stays and multiply by the tensile strength times the pct times about .8 to account for the angle off of vertical.

The load at the base of the mast is probably highest when static, ie no sail and no heel forces.