Question
Hourglass
Hi,
I just bought a used Alpha 215RS and wanted to get a spare hourglass and need some advice. I have attached a photo of the base of my mast. I have seen hourglasses for sale and they all seem to consist of a rubber body with two brass threaded inserts. If this is the correct unit for my board, how do I remove the bottom part (which inserts into the sail track car) and the top part (part which attaches to the mast base) from the hourglass. The bottom part does not seem to be able to unscrew from the hourglass, while the top part spins freely within the plastic body of the mast base but does not seem to pull out.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Best,
Mitch
AnswerHey Mitch,
You will need a couple of tools. For the bottom pin, clamp it into a vise with something protecting the pin like hard plastic, thick rubber, or even dense cardboard. Then use either a strap wrench or large channel locks to twist the hourglass (u-joint) off. It will be normal threads so twist just like taking the cap off a jar. At the widest point of the joint, there is a metal washer attached to the threaded insert. Grip the joint at this point to prevent turn the joint off the pin. If you get any teeth marks on the pin, file them down smooth.
For the top part of the base, there should either be a bolt or a nut down inside the base. You will probably need a socket and possibly an extension to turn the nut or bolt. It is most likely a metric size nut or bolt, probably about a 12-13mm. Again, grip the top part of the joint with the strap wrench or channel locks and twist away. You could also put the joint in a vise.
You may need to spray a little penetrating oil on both ends to get the treads to break loose. They tend to get a bit rusty.
When you get to putting all back together with a new joint, be sure to apply some Blue locktight on the threads to secure them to the joint. Blue can be removed, Red is almost permanent. Allow to set overnight before using.
You can get u-joints and parts at www.chinooksailing.com
Hope this helps.
Keep on sailing,
Windlover
