Thanks Bones, I remember (now) the photos you sent but I think I or my email deleted them. I cannot find them. I apologize for being so disorganized. If you could send them again off list I would be very grateful! And yes, I would appreciate any advice from folks that feel qualified to talk mast load paths. The marine shop took a look at the boat yesterday after I had opened it up and they are recommending I (we) create a post from the base of the mast area to the keel. With solid core (Coosa) under the tabernacle. What I cannot understand is where the current load path was. I assumed the three posts were a compression post but they are not. They did not touch the ceiling before it collapsed nor are they resting on anything except the floor liner which is floating above the keel. And the bulkhead on the side of the mast area is not touching the ceiling nor is it tabbed anywhere expect to the hull. So it does not look like it was intended to take loads from the mast. The trim pieces bridge the gap between the ceiling and bulkhead but that is not how you transfer loads effectively. So it looks to me like the mast is more supported like the M-15 through the cabin roof and sides with some added parts that are of secondary importance. I would appreciate Jerry or boat builders that have some experience letting me know what the design intended. I really want to over kill this so it never is a problem again. Thanks Robbin On 4/14/2014 11:23 PM, bownez@juno.com wrote:
Hey Robbin,
I think you should query the master Jerry M about the bulkhead/compression post/support issue. It seems to me that the mast and tabernacle would have some sort of support underneath the coachroof. As you know, my M23 was modified when I acquired her. The area underneath the tabernacle had been rebuilt, the area moved a few inches, and a metal plate added below at the top of the bulkhead compression post "boards". (re: those pics I sent). I wonder if perhaps your standing rigging had been over tightened at some point in time.
Anyway, whatever core material you choose to employ, it will be better than what you removed!
Keep the faith, you'll be on the water soon (LIKE ME).
Bones ____________________________________________________________ The #1 Worst Carb Ever? Click to Learn #1 Carb that Kills Your Blood Sugar (Don't Eat This!) http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3141/534ca67e694d1267e6c33st02vuc