Frank Langer
1984 Ericson 30+, Nanaimo, BC
With Ericsons having both deck-stepped and keel-stepped masts, depending on the model/size of boat, can anyone enlighten me on advantages and disadvantages of each?
My guess is as follows:
1) deck stepped is easier to rig/de-rig for annual haul-out
2) deck stepped is easier to cut away in a de-masting crisis
3) deck stepped may cause deck compression
4) keel stepped may leave some broken off mast for jury-rigging in a de-masting crisis
5) keel-stepped may be more prone to leaks
6) keel-stepped may spread the load more evenly through the sole/hull
7) keel-stepped may be less likely to fall if any shrouds/stays break
8) deck-stepped is lighter/shorter; less weight equals more speed
9) deck-stepped may be easier to adjust for mast rake
10) keel-stepped mast may be an obstruction in the cabin
I don't know if the above is accurate--just my thoughts. Anyone disagree or have some more to add, especially if some of you have design/engineering or similar backgrounds, and can add some technical perspectives.
Thanks,
Frank.
My guess is as follows:
1) deck stepped is easier to rig/de-rig for annual haul-out
2) deck stepped is easier to cut away in a de-masting crisis
3) deck stepped may cause deck compression
4) keel stepped may leave some broken off mast for jury-rigging in a de-masting crisis
5) keel-stepped may be more prone to leaks
6) keel-stepped may spread the load more evenly through the sole/hull
7) keel-stepped may be less likely to fall if any shrouds/stays break
8) deck-stepped is lighter/shorter; less weight equals more speed
9) deck-stepped may be easier to adjust for mast rake
10) keel-stepped mast may be an obstruction in the cabin
I don't know if the above is accurate--just my thoughts. Anyone disagree or have some more to add, especially if some of you have design/engineering or similar backgrounds, and can add some technical perspectives.
Thanks,
Frank.