It looks like I might just have to get a new, longer compression strut, the current one is loose, even with the tensioning bolts tightened up at the side.

The strut does go through the beam so that the mast step and strut are on either side of the top wall of the beam. The beam isn't being crushed.

I sail out of Royal Queensland. Don't follow too closely, I'm sure there won't be any spectacular results. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />