Hudson Force 50 Mizzen

[scotwagner]

I'm seriously looking to purchase a Hudson Force 50 on Vashon island. The owner used a Catalina 30 mast to replace the spruce mizzen. Is this a wise choice? Seems MOST rinky-dink to me. Far less than yachtsman quality. Cheers, Scot

[Brian Duff]

ummm....

I am sure it could be made to work, all depends on the design of the rig. rigs can be built almost any way imaginable, as long as the engineering pans out and the workmanship sound, your fine.

how is it 'rinky dink' ?

got pictures or more specs of the rig and boat?

[scotwagner]

Thanks for the reply. Here are my thoughts on rinky-dink: I know not if the boom length is the same; and nor does the owner. And wall thicknesses? Is the Catalina mast the proper wall thickness for the stresses and strains it now experiences? What's the taper? Does it matter? Are the Catalina masts deck-stepped because it is now. The original spruce mizzen spreaders were swept back; now they are straight. The tri-stay situation is of interest as well. Is it in the proper place in relation to the main? Hell, I don't even know if the old mast and the Catalina heights are the same! The deal is the owner is one of those lads who thinks he is seriously mechanically inclined; and perhaps he is on land. However, when it comes to this yacht he has TOTALLY mickey moused everything and thinks it's world class! Intersting to note: the replacement took place in New Zealand while on a serious bluewater cruise. He sailed her from Seattle to Hawaii, then all through the south seas, and then to NZ and back. He did this with the original rigging! The rigging has NEVER been replaced. The factory rigging on Taiwan boats was suspect new; much less 24 years old! Well.....I think you get my point! Cheers, Scot

[Brian Duff]

well if you are serious about the boat, and its in the seattle area, you need to call Brion Toss Yacht Riggers and have them do a pre purchase rig inspection. that will sort out whats wonk, and what right.

gudluck