OC 5 Mast Construction and Fitting Quiz

Which of the following is a common type of timber used in mast construction?

• Oak

• Spruce

• Mahogany timber, often used for interior joinery

• Teak, which is heavy and oily

What is the primary purpose of a spar gauge in mast construction?

• To measure wind speed

• To shape and size spars accurately

• To test timber strength for load-bearing

• To fasten mast fixings to the deck

Which of the following is a type of mast fixing?

• Deck stepped

• Bow thruster, used for manoeuvring

• Rudder post, which supports the rudder

• Bilge keel, for stability

What is the function of a chain plate in mast fitting?

• To support the rudder

• To attach stays to the hull

• To hold the anchor in place on the bow

• To secure the sail track to the mast

Which process involves removing material from the centre of a spar to reduce weight?

• Setting out

• Hollowing

• Finishing the surface for painting

• Jointing two timbers together

Which of the following best describes a keel-stepped mast?

• Supported only by the deck

• Passes through the deck and is stepped on the keel

• Attached to the transom for extra support

• Removable for easy transport

What is the main purpose of back stays in mast fitting?

• To support the mast from the front

• To support the mast from the rear

• To attach the mast to the deck securely

• To secure the sail to the mast

Which step comes first in the process of spar construction?

• Shaping

• Setting out

• Finishing with varnish

• Hollowing the centre

Why is conversion and jointing important in mast construction?

• It ensures the mast is waterproof

• It allows for the creation of longer, stronger spars from shorter pieces of timber

• It makes the mast lighter for racing yachts

• It improves the appearance of the mast for aesthetics

Explain how the use of a spar gauge contributes to the accuracy of mast shaping.

• It measures the wind direction for sailing

• It ensures uniform diameter and shape along the length of the spar

• It checks the moisture content of the timber before use

• It fastens the mast to the deck using bolts