Dismasting 101

[Maurice]

Below is a video of an intentional dis-masting. I think it would be good for us all to watch. It took 6 guys two and a half hours to get one section of the mast back aboard. We can imagine how hard in would be for 2 people in rough weather.

One of the first things one might want to do is start the engine. Don't do it until all rope and shrouds have been cut away. They demonstrate a few methods to cut away the shrouds.

I've never been dis-masted but I've helped a few boats that were. I think this is a must view video...what we learn here is just a prep for such an emergency....this time we can have the "lesson" before the " experience". Experience is the worst teacher.

If you lose the rig ensure you don't lose the engine by getting a shroud caught in the prop.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-jqwkNXMIY

[jpian0923]

That was interesting. Thanks.

Here is the follow up:

64l29uncetY

[msauntry]

This is why I always carry a spare mast.;)

[Maurice]

Laughing hard. I have bolt cutters aboard just for that reason...but after seeing the video I don't think they will work that well. Looks like actual cable cutters needed. I liked the hydraulic ones they had aboard...I'll keep an eye out for those in the future.

[ILikeRust]

Wow.

Quite the eye-opener. I had the same thought - I should keep some bolt cutters aboard. Then I thought maybe bolt cutters wouldn't be sufficiently robust to do the job.

Thanks for posting this! Lots of food for thought there. Like "geez, I need to pull and inspect my chainplates."

[msmith10]

I've seen a couple of dismastings. Bolt cutters don't work well- they tend to crush the cable. Cable cutters, while expensive, are the right tool. Even then, you may need a hacksaw to get through a furling foil.
Mo is right about being cautious starting the engine- it's easy to get rigging caught in the prop. Warn any good samaritans who want to help to keep their distance or you'll end up with 2 disabled boats tied together.
Winches are invaluable for hauling the spar/pieces aboard.

[jpian0923]

Here is another interesting one.

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[jpian0923]

Part 2

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[Maurice]

This poor old boat is taking a beating.

[jpian0923]

Mo, at our delight though. :D

These videos give me confidence and encouragement. Wish I had the resources (and staff) to do these test. So cool.

[Laker]

Note that the guy hacking the hole was wearing latex gloves but no safety glasses.

[67c&ccorv]

One thing for sure...30 knots on the ocean ain't nothing like 30 knots on the Great Lakes;

http://youtu.be/rOAcyrxd5Fk

http://youtu.be/7_7FmgK7Wm0

:eek:

[sastanley]

sweet...cool vids. :cool: