How to Attach Cleats to a J/24 Mast

Mounting cleats to the mast makes for easier halyard access.

Sail halyards should be fastened with a cleat that is mounted to the mast. Cleats consist of two "horns" pointing outward on opposite sides of each other and are easily mounted to the masts of J/24-model sailboats, which are manufactured by J/Boats. Tying sail halyards to the mast helps to alleviate pressure that is caused when halyards are deck-mounted, as a halyard is essentially trying to pull the mast through the hull while also trying to rip the cleat off the deck. Over time, these forces manifest themselves in a general weakening of the boat's structure.

Things You'll Need

• Mast cleats
• Grease pencil
• Drill
• Drill bit
• Rivets
• Rivet gun

Instructions

1. Match the correct cleat and rivets to the mast. J/24 masts are constructed of anodized aluminum, so both the rivets and cleats should also be made of aluminum, although cleats can also be made of a neutral material, such as nylon. This reduces the accelerated corrosion that is caused when different metals are combined.

2. Determine the mounting location of the cleat. From the base of the mast, measure 4 feet (48 inches) on the mast's starboard side; the cleat should be no higher than 4 feet from the base of the mast. Mark this location with a grease pencil.

3. Align the top of the cleat mounting base to the measurement mark, with one horn pointing up and the other pointing down. Mark the cleat's hole locations on the mast by inserting the grease pencil into the two mounting holes and spinning it. Remove the cleat and ensure the marks are present.

4. Drill a hole at each mark. Drill two holes using a power drill and a drill bit that correspond to the size of the rivets to mount the cleat to the mast.

5. Line up the cleat to the holes and hold the cleat in place. Put the rivet gun (loaded with the proper rivet) to one of the holes and squeeze the handle; this fastens the rivet in place. Repeat this process with the other mounting hole. The cleat is firmly attached to the mast.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are racing your J/24, be sure to consult the J/24-class rules before mounting cleats on the mast. J/24-class rules are very strict, and improperly mounting a cleat can disqualify your boat from competition.

References

• USA J/24 Class Association: The J/24
• J/Boats: J/24 Specifications
• International Sunfish Class Association: Where Should I Install Cleats on My Spars?
• International Sunfish Class Association: Mast Cleat Tips
• Shore Sails: J/24 Boat Speed Guide

Resources

• J/Boats: 20 Years of J/24
• USA J/24 Class Association: J/24-Class Rules