[Douglas]

Hi Mike, T Y , for asking your questions on this forum. I am interested because I too am sleeving my 4.5" X 7.25" aluminum mast section in two places.

It was great to read Brian's reply, and that raised some questions for me too.

First question is what really is the need to taper both ends of a mast sleeve ?

Second question is what is the reason for using adhesive on the sleeves ?

Third, would there be any advantage to using oval head instead of flat head fasteners ?

Currently, I am copying a sleeved mast splice that I saw being assembled at a local boatyard, I have a photo of it, if you need it ?

I also need to order 4 new tapered spreaders , from where , I don't know . I placed a fax order one month ago, with Rig Rite, but have heard nothing from them, and after reading the Cape Dory forum, expect that my order has been sent to the round file, drats !

Douglas