Mast step concern

[sunstone]

Hey all, I have a 1969 35 MK 1. I've owned her for 4 years at this point, and throughout that time cracks have started creeping around the base of the deck step. They look uneven compression points, and I've evened out the rigging a few times but they keep creeping.

I covered them with waterproof tape to prevent intrusion and replace it every so often, but would like to fix this long term. Has anyone seen a similar issue? I'm mostly concerned that it could be related to a larger issue with the compression elements that make up the mast step, and would require a more invasive repair than just fiberglass work.

 

[Pete the Cat]

Some checking of gelcoat is common in some Ericsons; my gelcoat buddy in the boatyard says that lots of checking was from the catalyst was a bit too hot (too much) when sprayed in the mold and this made some of the hulls more susceptible to checking as they aged and flexed--esthetic problem common in many production boats. Gelcoat checking and cracks are often just cosmetic--except when they are not and that is when there is something serious structurally going on underneath. Can't really tell from your pictures. I would be assessing what is behind the gelocoat that could be flexing that is seriously structural. I would like to tell you that there is an easy way to fill cracks without grinding it all back and recoating the whole area; but then I would be a liar. I have a lot of spider cracks in my 32-200 and I am just looking the other way and going sailing because there is nothing structural behind them. If this crack is allowing water between the gelcoat and the substrate, you probably want seal it with something.

 

[Christian Williams]

So you have the Alberg/King long keel 35? Some pictures would be great.

Is the mast stepped on deck?

 

[Drewm3i]

Hey all, I have a 1969 35 MK 1. I've owned her for 4 years at this point, and throughout that time cracks have started creeping around the base of the deck step. They look uneven compression points, and I've evened out the rigging a few times but they keep creeping.

I covered them with waterproof tape to prevent intrusion and replace it every so often, but would like to fix this long term. Has anyone seen a similar issue? I'm mostly concerned that it could be related to a larger issue with the compression elements that make up the mast step, and would require a more invasive repair than just fiberglass work.
View attachment 54952

That is structural (deck stepped mast, right?) and likely due to core degradation IMO. Are you in a climate where it freezes?