[C320-list] Cabling repair without Mast Removal

[Dave Moores]

Gary, your post leaves a few open questions as to your intentions.  May I
ask a few clarifying questions?
First off I assume you aware that there is a set of connectors at the base
of the mast where it meets the deck?  I would highly suspect faulty
connectors as a first step.  I'd bet the cables themselves are fine.

How are you going to enlarge the hole (in the mast step I assume you mean)
at the base of the mast with the mast still there: from underneath?  First
off how do you plan to do that without removing the mast support post? The
cables run through that do they not?  I can't imagine a way to do this
without damaging the cables, not to mention leaving the mast unsupported
from below - YIKES!

Perhaps I have completely misunderstood your thinking, or am mistaken about
where the wires run, so please accept any due apology.

Or, maybe it'd just be a lot simpler to have the mast out and do the
continuity checks to isolate the problem.  Re-tuning the rig ain't that big
a deal. (My mast comes out every winter anyway, which probably encourages a
certain cavalier attitude to pulling it out to fix a problem). 

Dave Moores
California Girl #342



-----Original Message-----
From: c320-list-bounces at catalina320.com
[mailto:c320-list-bounces at catalina320.com] On Behalf Of Magnuson's Ragtime
Sent: November 19, 2007 7:50 PM
To: c320-list at catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Cabling repair without Mast Removal


On my, new to me, 1995 - # 205,  The mast was removed and the interior mast
cables disconnected last winter for some survey repairs.  This spring the
Radar did not work, but due to scheduling, I had to start the 700 mile
delivery on Memorial day weekend, so could not wait to find a service tech
to determine the problem. I have now confirmed that the problem is the
cabling between the Antenna, and the display. In order to avoid the cost of
removing the mast and totally retuning the rig, I would like to enlarge the
hole at the base of the mast enough to allow the internal connector to pass
into the bilge area.  Then replace the cable section to the antenna, and
re-terminate the cable ends.   Any suggestions as to how to enlarge the hole
without damaging the existing cables? Any suggestions as to hole shape to
maintain structural integrity? I am considering drilling second larger hole
above the existing and then using a dremel tool to finish the penetration
when it gets close, and smoothing the edge burs. 
Thanks,
Gary  # 205