[Public-list] Mast Wiring Connectors/Main Halyard Sheaves

[Rod Symmes]

I agree, Gord.  I have used a 4-wire trailer connector for several seasons without even having to reseat the connector to re-establish a good connection (like I often have to do on the truck because of road crud).   The only suggestion I might add is to be sure to cover the wires completely with tape or heat shrink tubing to protect it from the UV,  otherwise the insulation on them will start cracking after only a few seasons.  I too tape the connector once it is plugged together.

That said,  Gord , you and I are sailing on fresh water.   If I was on salt water and/or only took the mast down once in a blue moon,  then I would probably do as Andrew suggested and feed the wires [ unbroken ] through those great looking clams and make all the connections inside.

Cheers,    Rod

  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Gordon Laco 
  To: Alberg 30 Public List -- open to all 
  Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 2006 12:49 PM
  Subject: Re: [Public-list] Mast Wiring Connectors/Main Halyard Sheaves


  Others may cringe but the most reliable connectors I have found are simple
  car trailer connectors.  I wish the wires were a little heavier - but they
  seem to be the easiest to keep working.

  I caulk the heck out of the place where the wires come through the deck
  beside the mast...and tape up the connector once the male and female are
  plugged in.  I have used a variety of expensive made-for-the-purpose
  connectors; all failed.

  Gord #426 Surprise







  > I've just finished taking the mast down for the first time.  In the
  > process I discovered that the mast had been hard-wired to the boat, and
  > we had to cut the wires in order to take it down.
  > 
  > I am now looking for a means to connect two wires at the deck, one two
  > conductor and one three conductor.  West marine sells a five conductor
  > Aqua Signal setup that looks fairly substantial, possibly more
  > substantial (bigger) than I'm really looking for.  Does anyone have a
  > preferred waterproof plug/affixation method for this application?
  > 
  > Thanks,
  > 
  > Andrew
  > Andante - 152
  > 
  > P.S. Test sheave two went in earlier this week without any issues and
  > fits perfectly.  I will get the checks assembled and confirm the final
  > order on the list before sending everything out.  The line halyard I
  > chose was a 5/16ths, 3/8ths would probably work just fine as well, but I
  > felt it was more windage and unnecessary weight aloft for a fairly minor
  > gain in handling ease at deck level.  Just my comments for those who
  > intend to switch to rope with the change.
  > 
  > Cole, Andrew L
  > Admitted in Maryland, Virginia & Florida
  > One Corporate Center
  > 10451 Mill Run Circle, Suite 1000
  > Baltimore MD 21117
  > 
  > 
  > tel: 410 581-7408
  > fax: (410) 581-7410
  > mob: (410) 206-3577
  > 
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