Forward crossbar

Hi,
I've been sailing hobies (14, 16, 18) in Italy since I was 8.
while setting up my boat for the season, I just noticed that the forward crossbar of my 83 hobie 18 is slightly bent just in front of where the mast step sits. Only the upper part of the crossbar is bent.
More alarmingly, when i pull the front bridles and the mast moves i can see that the aluminium of the upper part of the crossbar bends in a little.
All this with the mast just stepped up, little tension on the shrouds.

I think that at first i'll try and tighten the dolphin striker as much as possible (how much is it safe?), in order to relieve pressure but should I just buy a new crossbar?

And in this case is there a place in Europe (UK or french websites?) where I could get used replacement parts as cheap as in the US? I have bought parts in the USA, but I think that it's not going to be possible (or affordable if possible) to get an item as large as this shipped to Italy.
Only other alternative is to buy a brand new crossbar at the inflated italian prices.

What do you suggest?
Thanks
Leo

I would get a new crossbar. The twisting action in rough seas may fail the beam at that point. I cannot assist in Euro forums. Don't know any.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

Thank you very much.
Really no one here from Europe?
I'll either pay the italian price or buy a used 18 in order to cannibalize it.

There was a guy selling some on ebay.de
But they have ended...
There is a hull for sale if you need one!!!!!!!


I also would apreciate a good priced distributor in europe! I anyone knows one
I also have to order from the states...I deal with mariner sails...they r very helpfull


Happy Sailing from Ibiza

Bonjour Leo

my front crossbar was cracked all the top under the mast so the previous owner made from stainless steel a mast step

it worked

maybe I could sell you this part it will work for you i m sure


Charles

for pictures : charlesdumasAhotmail.com

I picked up an 18 with that problem. Had been sailed with the step pin in and rotation created the bend. Weld a large plate over it or replace it. I would replace as the repair will be ugly.

I decided and bought a new crossbar.
It is a naked one.
After having removed the mast step, I am having a hard time getting the dolphin striker out of the side castings: how should I do it?
The dolphin striker seems really locked and the side casting does not move: should I warm it in order to make it expand?

Thanks everybody
Leo