A couple of months ago I discovered that the L shaped mast support step was badly rusted. Also, the forward layer of plywood that was sandwiched to the aft layer that the step is bolted to was pulpy and beyond repair. I was quite surprised that Com-Pac chose to use standard steel rather than stainless. I gathered some suggestions on a repair course to take and decided on my own method to fix rather replace it. I did go through a multi-step process involving rust removal, galvanizing the step and using Smith Clear Penetrating Epoxy and Smith Epoxy Filler to replace the damaged plywood. I also added an additional piece of half inch plywood--also treated with SCPE to reinforce and support the epoxy filler. You can see it as the U shaped wood surrounding the mast step. I may replace the step entirely if this repair proves inadequate.
If I may add something to the mix. Early on in my life with my Eclipse, I found water in the port cabinet under the quarter berth after driving all day in heavy rain. It was then that I found how the factory sealed the 2 sides of the mast. The two collars that help hold the mast stub in place (one on the cabin top and one inside the cabin) both had substantial amount of sealant. A heavy bead was completely surrounding the mast. As I would step and un-step frequently this sealant would crack, especially the one on the cabin roof. This allowed water to run down the mast and follow the voids between the two sides of the cabin roof and in my case run into the compartment. A previous owner had sealed (epoxy) all the wood in the V berth compartment where the mast step lives. He also put in a drain, of sorts, that allowed water to work its way out of the compartment and into the bilge. Since there was a path for the water into the bilge, I removed all the caulk around the mast inside the cabin so water would not flow through the cabin roof. I found that I had to re-caulk the mast stub under the collar about every other year. The frequent stepping and un-stepping of the mast would eventually loosen the caulk and I would see a bit of water in the V berth compartment. The drain hole was integral to keeping the compartment dry. But I would check the compartment a few times a year. Additionally, I had rust olem the metal angle iron early in the 10 years I owned the Eclipse. When I would leave the boat in the marina, I would frequently open the compartment and let it dry out. I believe that newer Eclipse boats had the drain factory installed. My Eclipse was #49 and a 2007. It looks like EVERY Com Pac owner needs to pay attention to the mast step. I just looked at my Horizon set-up (2021) and it is just sitting on wood. The wood is epoxied but still subject to rotting from water. There is a drain but it is tiny and I think will plug up easily. I know have it on my frequent check list.
Your repair looks great and will no doubt last a long time but everyone needs to check their mast bast often. Sail On AL
Al, Thanks for your very helpful reply. My boat is #44 and does have what appears to be a factory built drain hole under the mast that leads to the bilge. There also is a thick bead of caulk on the deck side of the mast base. I appreciate that you mentioned another bead of caulk on the inside and will check for it. Apparently, water still works its sneaky way down the mast onto the step by other means. Your advice to check this frequently is wise and is certainly on my checklist as well. It required several hours of effort and significant expense to repair the step and the plywood. While the Com-Pac deck is soundly built, potential structural problems could certainly result from a compromised mast step. There appears to be plenty of good metal on the step and the plywood repair should hold up over time. The Smith products I used are IMO better than similar WEST System stuff. The are pricy but yield excellent results. I hope you are enjoying your boat on the other side of Florida.
Only 5 boats in-between - cool. To answer your question, I love the Horizon and for me it was a logical choice. I needed to get rid of man-handling the outboard every time I sailed. Even though the Eclipse was easy to step, the process is half on the Horizon. More room in the cockpit and cabin sealed the deal. From all I have read I have an unusual Horizon. PO ordered the boat with the 2 cyl diesel and a tiller, which apparently was an unusual combination. Not sure how many but I'll bet just a few.
Enjoy that Eclipse - one of the best sailing boats on the water. I loved mine.... Sail On AL
Depending on how long I can singlehande the Eclipse, I may be moving on to a simpler to operate Com-Pac as well some day. I'm not getting any younger or cuter but intend to sail as long as I am upright! I infer from your description of your Horizon that some come with a diesel and wheel steering? That would be in my mind ridiculous. But, it is nice to have choices. Is yours a Cat or Day Cat?