Installing winch pad on mast

[Russ L]

Originally Posted by mikestevens

OK, with the repair of my mast I also would like to install a winch on the mast for the main hallyard. What are my choices for a pad. Bolt on bracket? welded on pad? What are the pros and cons?
Any help out there would be appreciated.
Mike

Hi Mike,
Usually, drill & tap into the mast for the winch and provide a transitional base (pad) to account for the winch alignment and mast contour.
Do not weld, it will significantly weaken the mast in that area... in the order of 30% weaker.

Cheers, Russ