Sealing the gap between the mast and the deck duct is a general problem with through-stepped masts. Rubber collars made from car inner tubes, for example, become porous due to UV radiation. Collars made of tarpaulin fabric do not fit tightly enough around the gap and leak. We solve the problem with white shrink film, which is also used to wrap boats in winter storage or for transport over land. Cut into hand-width strips, we wrap the material around the deck grommet after positioning the mast, secure the film with tape and carefully shrink the material together with a hot air gun. Two layers of film are enough for a watertight result. A canvas collar covers the shrink film and gives it a nice look. Now all that remains is to seal the mast groove with sealant. After that, only the halyard leaks will cause water in the boat, but this can be kept to a minimum.
Bernd Oberländer, Emsdetten
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Michael Rinck
Redakteur Test & Technik
