[C320-list] May track installation

[Jeff Hare]

Warren, 

I used tape as a depth stop for this application, specifically because the T-Track is anodized and you really don't want the drill bit to scratch the track.  I just used a single round of Duct tape on the bit and it's obvious when you're through. A depth stop isn't really needed here and would be a lot of extra work needed to protect the anodizing of the track.  

Since you're drilling up the center line of the mast there's nothing inside the mast to be damaged and again it's obvious when you about to punch through.  I just tightened all 4 halyards so there would be no chance of snagging a halyard (not that this is even remotely possible, just overly cautious).

-Jeff



-----Original Message-----
From: C320-list [mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com] On Behalf Of Warren Updike
Sent: Monday, July 4, 2016 4:20 PM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] May track installation

I recommend you use a depth stop on the drill bit. On our #62 mast, the PVC conduits (two on each side of the center line) are close to the surface. When we installed our pole ring I was careful to not drill past the mast material; and, still got a bit of PVC on the drill tip.
If your pole is for a symmetrical spinnaker, then a track may be what you want. For a cruising spinnaker I found that a fixed ring was sufficient. We store the pole on Forespar grips that attach to the stanchions.

-----Original Message-----
From: Daryl Hunt [mailto:drhunt at rochester.rr.com] 
Sent: Saturday, July 02, 2016 3:30 PM
To: C320 List
Subject: [C320-list] May track installation


    
Installing a whisker pole track on my mast.  About to drill and tap holes for the 1/4" x 5/8" SS screws when it occurred to me that I might want to use the finer 24 vs 20 threads/inch screws since I've only got about .125" of mast thickness to hold them.   Of course, I also plan to use lock-tite blue for extra grip and to inhibit galvanic corrosion.   Any thoughts on the screw selection?
regards, Daryl C320 #660 BelieveRochester, NY