Riveting to the mast

[ricklee_v17]

Morning all,

I am going to install a topping lift to my V17 and I have decided on an arrangment that requires a block to be added to the top of the mast and an additional cleat added to the bottom of the mast.

I am pretty handy but I am no metal worker. Hence, I am a bit intimidated by the prospect of drilling holes in my mast and riveting stuff to it. I wanted to run the plan by you all and see if you thought it was sound and also see if you had any advice.

I will a rivet a eyestrap to the port side of the top of the mast. A swivel block will be attached to the eyestrap. I was thinking I would use a clam cleat with a becket at the bottom of the mast to secure the toppoing lift. I would use the eyestrap that is already at the aft end of the boom to secure the business end of the lift. I was going to use some sort of shackle but am thinking that an inexpensive carabiner or quick link would do the job just as well.

Any help?

Thanks,

Rick
http://macv17.blogspot.com/

[Catigale]

Rick - at the top of the mast why not through drill and use SS bolts and locknuts for your block? Much simpler I think.

[ricklee_v17]

I don't actually have access to the inside of my mast as it has a cap riveted on to the top. I wish I did. I would feel much more comfy with nuts and bolts..

[Catigale]

I would consider drilling out the rivets and putting the cap back on with screws for easy removal.

Buy a good quality Co drill bit for that drill job and it should be a snap..