Bob, I'd strongly consider soaking the mast base with CPES or some other penetrating epoxy sealer. More importantly, don't forget to honor the ancient tradition of placing a coin under the mast in the mast step. Use something with a bit of panache, not a common quarter. A Bahamian coin, a Canadian Loonie or Toonie or perhaps a $20 gold piece would do nicely! Regards, Randy Pickelmann Morning Star lying Marathon, FL www.CruisingMorningStar.com