We just bought a Sol Cat 18 that looks to be about 30 years old. Being fairly new to the sport we're trying to figure the whole thing out.



We put up the mast (step?) with the boat on the trailer and it seemed to be more difficult than it should be. We tried installing it from the bow end, and then were able to lift it into place from the stern end but it took a lot of effort.



The hulls are red but faded. My neighbor told me that an old trick was to wipe them down with Lemon Pledge to make them look better, as wax will turn white eventually.



What is the best way to install the mast? Does anyone know where I can find more information (a manual) for the Sol Cat 18? What's the best way, other than new paint, to clean up the hulls? Is WD 40 a bad idea on sticking parts or is silicone spray better?



Thanks.