[C320-list] Replacing Stem Fitting

[windswept at stx.rr.com]

   Dave - Sorry for the delayed response.   We have WindSwept since new in
   1995.  The stemhead was replaced in 2006 when a short horizontal crack
   between the top and next bolt was discovered during a rig inspection.
   This winter my rigger noticed a few cracks in the welds on the deck
   part of the stemhead and recommended replacement.  The first two were
   both the original design.  Now I have the new design. The replacements
   were made with the mast in place using the jib and spin halyards for
   support.  The halyards were secured  to the bow cleats and pulled
   tight. The headsail should be removed.
   Larry
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     __________________________________________________________________

   From: C320-list <c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com> on behalf of
   Dave Hupe <hoopdtwo at yahoo.com>
   Sent: Tuesday, May 4, 2021 8:08 AM
   To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
   Subject: Re: [C320-list] Replacing Stem Fitting

   Larry -  why 2 times?  Was the first replacement the old design?   Did
   you do this with the mast removed, or somehow with mast up and
   supporting the front stay say using a cleat?
   Dave Hupe1994 C320
   (#32)__________________________________________________________________
   ______________________________________
   On Tuesday, May 4, 2021, 08:52:36 AM EDT, Larry Frank
   <windswept at stx.rr.com> wrote:
   Agreed that the stemhead should be replaced with new and I recommend
   the new design.  I just replaced the stemhead on WindSwept (1995 #246)
   for the second time.  First was in 2006.  The old design is prone to
   failure as I can attest.  When you go to the bother of taking the
   failed stemhead off and the reinstalling something why not go with a
   new one with a better design?  You may want to check directly with
   Garhauer (Garhauermarine.com) who makes all of them.  You should be
   able to save some money over Catalina or CD.  Be prepared to send in
   the old fitting so they can make sure they get the new one correct.  I
   believe all of the sourcing options will require this and you should
   want to take this approach too as not all C320s are exactly the same.
   Larry
   WindSwept
   C320 #246
   

References

   1. https://aka.ms/o0ukef