Well, that is certainly a great idea BUT I don't have the compression tube (it was missing from the boat when purchased as was the Dolphin Stryker casting) and the newly ordered one won't arrive in time for the patch welding tomorrow. I like the idea though of using a temporary bolt to hold the patch down during welding. I'll suggest that to the welder. Since I'm only adding 1/4 inch to the height of the main beam I hope not to interfer with stepping the mast. It's possible, I guess, but we'll have to see. For now I'll plan on adding the compression tube after the fact through the end as a couple of guys have suggested.

Here' s a couple of additional questions....

How EXACTLY do you measure the pre-bend by the way? A couple of full turns of the bottom nut after first touching the casting?

Do you think the fact that the new compression tube will be slightly short than typical (shorter by the thickness of the beam wall when positioned between the inside of the main beam and the patch) will make any difference at all?

Thanks,
Greg