I took a hinged base-plate off a Moore 24. It makes taking down the mast much much easier.... which has been handy for getting past unattended bridges in the Delta.

However, it is still a fair amount of work to loosen the shrouds, take off the boom etc. I seem to remember some of the Santa Cruz boats lower the mast to pass a bridge every time they go out. They might be worth checking out too.

J

:: Most of the newer S22s seem to have them (#801 and
:: above). I'm not sure if its standard now or an option.
:: Schock would be your best source, they are very helpful
:: and if not in stock they will tell you who they get them
:: from.
::
:: :: Does anyone use a hinge on the butt end of their mast to
:: :: make raising and lowering easier? I am thinking it would
:: :: be similar what I have typically seen on a Moore 24 or
:: :: Express 27. Does anyone know where to buys a hinged mast
:: :: base? Ballenger? Any advice would be appreciated.