Hello, I have a 1995 F 45 cc with some slight mast creaking. Seems to be coming from very slight side to side movement at the deck seal. There is also minor water intrusion at a few spots where the plastic/delrin seal touches the mast.
My question is if this is normal? Should I be concerned? Is there a way to replace the seal or shim it in some manner?
Thank you for any help or insight. My email is cgogden@yahoo.
Thanks, Clay
Your spartite ring has moved or has become deformed. Remove it and cast a new one
It looks like you have the original urethane ring, which was sealed around the mast with silicone. It’s not delrin, as it needs to be soft enough to handle some movement of the mast. You could unbolt and lift up the ring on deck, dig it all out and clean it up, and then re-seal it to prevent further water ingress. But @Eben is right, go with Spartite. It’s a great product, and it’s perfect for Freedom masts.
Thank you both for your help!
