mast....teflon chip??

hi again, what is the reason for the teflon chip at the base of the mast?....and what would happen if i dont put one in....and what can u use for one?
thanks for a relpy!

The chip is to prevent wear between the mast base and the mast, since they are both aluminum. Think of it as padding/lubricant. It needs to be replaced from time to time.

Folks in this forum have gotten pretty clever with mast chip substitutes, including plastic golf balls and plastic twist off bottle caps. Search this forum for that discussion.

I just ordered a package of 10 and keep them in my boat tool box. Since I forgot to take them out while trailering I ended up adding the "chip keeper" modification to my mast step. Do a search for it on the forum and it will tell you what to do.

I like to use the teflon because of how it works as a bearing over other materials. Teflon is very lubricious and it will take the shape of the cup in the mast step (including all of the dings and scratches) and the mast base. It almost "flows" to where it needs to be.

I have been able to use just one or two per season depending on how much I get on the water.

_________________
Nick

Current Boat
In the market
Previous boats owned
'74 Pearson 30
'84 H16
'82 H18 Magnum
St. Louis, MO