[Public-List] Cracked masthead on first generation A-30

[Rachel]

Hello fellow Albergers,

Today I found that I have a crack in my cast aluminum masthead.  I 
guess I can't complain too much, as this is the first thing I've found 
on the boat that the Previous Owner bludged up - for the most part he 
took very good care of the boat, and kept it in good, original 
condition.

Anyway, what's happened is that he rigged up an extended "crane" for a 
spinnaker halyard, but using two chainplates with some wood sandwiched 
between to extend the front of the masthead forward and mount a block.  
The flaw came in because the wood was not a suitable compression block, 
and then tightening the fasteners caused one of the two "ears" at the 
top forward of the masthead to try to bend inward a shade.  Cast 
aluminum does not like to bend, so I've got a hairline crack near where 
the clevis pin for the forestay goes through, on the port-side ear.

I remember talk of new mastheads being fabricated, but it was one of 
those subjects I wasn't dealing with at the time, so I don't remember 
the details.  Can anyone fill me in?  Are they available?  From whom 
and at what cost?

I'd also be open to repairing the masthead by sistering or welding, but 
don't know if this is possible.  Cosmetics are not that important, 
considering the location, but of course strength is a huge priority.

This is the original mast, hull #221.  Original masthead, too.  I have 
photos if they are needed.

Thanks so much for any input,

Rachel
1967 Alberg 30, #221


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