Drilling Mast?

Hello,

I just got a Hobie 17 and have a list of questions...but i will do 1 at a time.

Mine does not have any type of cleat on the lower mast area. Is if ok to drill? install? pop rivet? some sort of cleat to the lower mast without causing a problem with it be "watertight"?...if it is even "watertight??

thanks

Chris

Why do you want to mount a cleat?

The only cleats that are mounted on the mast are the downhaul cleats and that's only if the aftermarket 6:1 system is installed.

In any event, you should use rivet sleeves on the pop rivets to maintain the watertight integrity of the mast.

Yes, it is ok to mount a cleat. I did on my mast to tie off the main halyard when I raise and lower the mast solo. Make sure you use the rivet casings to keep the mast water tight.

FastCat,

Can you describe or show in a photo where exactly you positioned the halyard cleat.. ( I like a plan B for the unreliable hook / ring) and what size / length rivet you used. Thanks.
Graham
86 H17 SE

_________________
:: winners sail their own race ::

someguyinohio, I rivited the cleat vertically about 2 feet up from the mast base, centered on the right side of the mast. Murray's has a cleat kit cat# 01-1019 with all you need (cleat, rivits and rivit casings) for $8.25. You will need a drill and rivit gun. Now as far as plan B, I would not suggest using the cleat for tying off an non-ring locked halyard. With a little practice (uphauling the main facing the wind, swiveling mast and concurrently pulling down main then keeping tension with down haul lock) you will be able to get a firm ring lock every time. Good luck