T34 Mast Rebuild

file:///C|/T34_tech_articles/t34mast/index.htm[8/24/2011 2:26:14 PM]

T34C Mast RebuildingA series of photos showing the re-rigging of the mast on Aries, 1978 T34C #524.

Click any image for a larger view.

Modernizing the Rig

Un-stepping themast on Aries

Out for the first timesince 1978

Deck junction Mastfoot

Foredeck light Original masthead

Epoxied mastfoot New wiring

New exit slots forinternal halyards

Close-up of the exitslot

This was the first time the mast was un-stepped on Aries in many years.

Although time had taken its toll, overallthe rig was in surprisingly good shape. Inaddition to a very careful inspection, quitea bit of work was accomplished tomodernize the rig and bring it up to snuff.

The first 6 photos show the mast, riggingand hardware as removed.

The remaining photos show the re-builtmast and rigging. The basic workperformed was:

Replacing the standing rigging andattachment pointsCleaning up and refurbishing themast footCutting slots in the mast andrunning new internal halyardsReplacing the wiring harnessAdding a tri-color to the mastheadAdding new spreader lights

A summary of the electrical workperformed:

A riveted conduit was added to keepthe wiring from slapping andchafing on the halyardsAll existing wires were replacedA new cable was run for the combomasthead lightNew wiring was run for the spreaderlightsEach conductor was labeledA new 32 conductor coveredterminal from Blue Sea wasmounted on the Head-Salonbulkhead immediately beside thelower mast conduit openings toreceive the wiring. This will alsoallow the mast to be more easilypulled in the future.

T34 Mast Rebuild

file:///C|/T34_tech_articles/t34mast/index.htm[8/24/2011 2:26:14 PM]

Spreader lightsadded and wired

Close-up of theshroud tangs

Tri-color added atthe masthead

Rebuilt mastheadfrom above

Shrouds and staystied off

Mast ready to bestepped

Although this was a lot of work, the resultwas worth the trouble. The electricalsystems should be much more reliable andI can rest easy knowing the rig will be infine condition for years to come.

Deane Holt