Doyle's Tide Track

[Inkwell]

I plan to install the Tide Track in my mast track. I need to open the mast track up about 2 more inches for the Tide Track to slip in. I am thinking of small holes next to current opening and then punch out the alum and then grind smooth. Soaking he Tide Track with a spray bottle of water and dish soap as I push it up the mast. Has anyone installed a Tide Track on their boat? Any suggestions?

[witzgall]

Inkwell;

Are you sure you ahve to modify the track? I don't know about the Doyles, but Strong Track from tides marine (Same stuff??) makes different profiles to fit different masts, including an external one. Modding your spar is a very destructive and irreversible act, and if it does not work out as you planned, a huge expense to fix.

[Inkwell]

Installation Overview

Before beginning, the top of the mast gate should be at least 10" above the gooseneck and be three inches long. This is necessary as the Tides Marine track needs sufficient room to bend/curve into the mast gate while clearing the gooseneck hardware / boom. If your installation is hampered because the mast gate is too close to the gooseneck (or too short), you may have to extend the mast gate one to three inches up the mast using a small grinder / Dremel tool. When you are finished enlarging the mast gate, make certain to file the freshly cut edges smooth using a small rasp or file. In most cases, the Tides track should slide smoothly into the mast gate and up the mast. If you think a lubricant is needed, use only water or water combined with a very small amount of liquid detergent. Other lubricants such as WD-40 can leave a residue on the track/mast which can collect dirt, dust and debris.

This is the method recommended on Doyle's website.

[witzgall]

Oh, I had the idea that you needed to do this for the entire sailtrack. What you posted makes sense, and a dremel seems the ticket, perhaps followed by some sandpaper. Let us know how i goes - I am interested in doing this too.

Chris