[C38] Mast Steps - fasterners and snags?

[Tom T.]

Hi Rich,

It's your boat but I sure would hate to see mast steps on any good sailing boat, especially one of our 38's.

I used to crew with a guy who had a boat in the Bahamas and he installed fixed mast steps and it really hurt his boat's sailing ability.  The steps create turbulence which causes a delaminating air across the mainsail making it less efficient.

On his next boat, he bought a nylon web steps system made from nylon strap which is raised in the sail slot providing nylon strap loops on the trailing edge of the mast.   I've used his web system and although not as easy to climb as the fixed steps, it was far better in every other way.  I can't remember the name of the steps system but it coils in a small package and stores out of sight until you need it.  It gives no weight aloft and doesn't cause loss of sail efficiency because it is only on the mast when you use it.

I personally use mountain climber gear attached to a Swiss seat and harness but that is more ambitious than most sailors want to mess with leaving the practical and portable web system a good second place choice in my opinion.  One other reason for using the web steps system is it doesn't weaken the mast like screws or rivets do,  not to mention the damage potential to the internal halyards.

In any case, good luck.

Tom Troncalli
Renata (hull #95)


----- Original Message ----- 
From: Rich West 
To: Catalina 38 Listserve
Sent: 6/28/2009 8:21:21 PM 
Subject: [C38] Mast Steps - fasterners and snags?


Hi Everyone,

I'm thinking of installing mast steps on my C38 and I'm having a raging debate with myself about how to fasten them to the mast.  I thought I'd ask for opinions before this argument ends badly for one of me!

I chosen the mast steps - the Ronstan type.  I found knock-offs for much less money at marinepartdepot.com.  What I'm trying to decide is how to attach them.  I'm worried about using self-taping screws in that the screws could shag the internal halyards during halyard operation.  I found self-taping screws at mcmaster.com that have blunt ends, but the ends, though blunt, are still sharp.

Someone suggested taping the holes and using machine screws but that's going to leave sharp edges inside the mast (risk of snagging again) and there isn't much thickness of mast material to hold the threads.

I'm considering using blind rivets but hesitate only in that I don't see it done.  Does anyone know why this might not be a good idea?  McMaster has stainless rivets in many sizes and shapes.

Thanks in advance for your input.

Rich West
Legacy, #360, now in San Diego

P.S. Go Larry!  Have a great sail!
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