Okay guys-
Several people have asked me for the "numbers" I got on my mast using the Goodall's mast bend test.
Here they are, my numbers first ("typical" range following):
Tip deflection-
Fore-aft: 48mm (35-45mm)
Sideways: 179mm (140-170mm)
Lower mast bend-
Fore-aft: 12mm (8-10mm)
Sideways: 47mm (38-48mm)
As you can see, all my numbers are above, or at the upper limit, of the "typical" range. Mine is a 1997 model w/ the sloop Superwing mast.
Here's the test, compliments of Goodall's -
MAST BEND TEST FOR TAIPAN 4.9 MASTS
For this test you will require 2 saw hawses, a G-clamp, a 20 kg weight and a tape measure.
Remove the diamond wires from the diamond arms.
TEST 1A: Tip Deflection - "Fore-aft"
 Position the mast sail track DOWN and clamp the mast base so that it does not move.
 Place a support under the hound position, 6000mm from the base so that the mast will pivot at this point.
 Place a 20kg weight at the tip and measure its deflection downwards.
TEST 1B: Tip Deflection - "Sideways"
 Same as for test 1A except lie the mast on it side.
Typical bend test figures for these tests are 35 - 45 mm for-aft, and 140 - 170 mm sideways.
TEST 2A: Lower mast bend - "Fore-aft"
 Position the mast sail track UP and clamp the mast base so that it does not move.
 Place a support under the hound position, 6000mm from the base so that the mast will pivot at this point.
 Place a 20 kg weight midway between these two supports and measure its deflection downwards.
TEST 2B: Lower mast bend - "Sideways"
 Same as for test 2A except lie the mast on it side.
Typical bend test figures for these tests are 8-10mm for-aft and 38-48mm sideways.
 Check the mast for fore aft straightness.
Note any permanent bend in the mast as this will effect the required luff curve in the sail.
When I get my new (old) "cat specialist mast" from Australia via Michael I will test it also- If others who test their masts could post their numbers we could arrive at our own "typical" numbers and get numbers for some other boats too--
Enjoy!
Kirt
