Posted: July 06 2006 at 17:00 | IP Logged

Hi Bob,

Just got logged on.  If you posted a picture, I can't open it.

Posted: August 30 2006 at 15:22 | IP Logged

Best mast boot I have used is Spartight! Ive used it on a Sabre 38 and a J44.

Works great!

Posted: August 30 2006 at 19:18 | IP Logged

Bob,

I just moved my 362 from Florida to Georgia.  The spartite came out with a little coaxing but went right back in with some vaseline.  I did buy the new boot from West Marine and used it uncut during shipping to close off the collar from rain.  Just before I stepped the mast, I cut the boot at the top to a bit smaller than 19".  It slid onto the bottom of the mast and up over the spartite.  After the mast was stepped, it clamped it to the mast and to the deck collar and it is working great!

Jim

Posted: August 31 2006 at 10:57 | IP Logged

Bob,

Spartite is an epoxy that when mixed is liquid.  Once the mast is stepped, you form a "dam" with some materials in the spartite kit, and then pour in this liquid between the mast and the deck collar.  If you don't use spartite, then you must put in wooden blocks or rope between the collar and the mast.  Once this is done, which is usually not water tigtht unless you use spartite, you must then put a vinyl or rubber "boot".  This boot is tight around the mast about 8" above the deck and then it is tight around the collar just above the deck and sheave collar.  This is to keep the rain out.  Mine is also hose clamped top (at the mast) and bottom (at the collar).  If you use spartite, it becomes a permanant part of the mast and comes out with each mast pull and back in when it is stepped.  Be sure to follow the spartite directions so it will come out easily when the mast is pulled.

Nan, at Hall Spars, recommends the use of spartite and has also been a great source of info when I was stepping the mast.  nan@hallspars.com

Good luck, Jim

Posted: August 31 2006 at 10:59 | IP Logged

Bob,

One more thing.  If your mast is not out, the boot you bought can be cut so it can be put around the mast.  Inside their box, you will find some glue to seal it back up at the point you cut it.

Jim