SEVERNE MAST CARE GUIDE

A mast can break for several reasons, but apart from production defects, the most common reason for mast breakage is incorrect usage.

Here are a couple of tips on how to look after your mast and extend its lifetime.

Boom head – Do not over tighten

SlipLok is a texture added to the boom area of SEVERNE masts to increase friction for less slippage. This eliminates the need to overtighten the boom, decreasing stresses on the mast.

The SEVERNE boom with the Lockjaw front end only requires a minimal closing force to attach securely to the mast without sliding.  You should not apply more than 10-15kg of pressure to close the lever. This can be done easily with two fingers.

Many over tighten their boom head with excessive force. This can easily crack the mast and leads to permanent damage at the boom head. It’s important to note that breakage at the boom area is NOT covered by warranty.

Overexposure to UV and heat

Leaving your mast under direct sunlight shortens its lifespan and increases the risk of breakage. When not sailing for a longer period of time, we recommend moving your rig out of direct sunlight or completely de-rigging it. UV rays are also harmful to your sail.

Find a good rigging spot

Always strive to rig on grass or on a nonabrasive surface. This will keep your luff sleeve, batten pockets, and the top of the sail in good shape. Always keep sand out of the inside of the luff sleeve.

Do not leave your sail rigged

Leaving a sail rigged overnight or for several days can cause damage to your mast and sail.
Never leave the sail rigged for extended period, even with the downhaul tension released.

Before assembling the mast

Make sure the top section of the mast and the ferrule on the bottom section are completely clean before putting the mast together.

Shore breaks

When launching in waves/shore breaks, keep your rig clear of the breaking waves. If your rig is caught in the impact zone of a breaking wave, your mast, as well as your sail, could be damaged. Furthermore, if the top of your mast catches the ocean bottom while a wave impacts the sail, your mast and sail could suffer breakage.

Impacts

Impact with sharp edges or hard/abrasive surfaces might cause permanent damage to your mast or compromise its structural integrity.

Adjustable downhaul

The use of an adjustable downhaul system can cause stress and damage to your mast. At the point of attachment, the rope can cause compression onto the fibres of the mast. And while not immediately obvious, the compression on the mast weakens it over time and causes breakage.

Cam usage

Improper use of cams can create wear on the mast and damage the mast permanently.
Make sure cams are placed well and rotate correctly.

Correct usage

While versatile, the SEVERNE masts are designed and built for SEVERNE products using the specs provided. Applying too much downhaul to your sail can lead to damage.

TRANSPORTATION

Always store and transport your SEVERNE mast using the protective bag it was delivered with. Impacts on the ground or a sharp edge can lead to partial or total failure on the water.

MAST STUCK

Always make sure that the ferrule on the mast is free of sand and dust when connecting the top and bottom parts of your mast. Should the mast get stuck, don’t attempt to twist it apart, but follow the steps explained in the video below.

Warranties

Please visit the Severne warranties page.