B. NEW ROD INSTALLATION

Using a rat tail file, increase the diameter of the mast support rod holes in the beam by 1/16". The original rod was 1/2" and the new one is 9/16". Test the holes with the new rod. A new compression tube is supplied however the original may work. Do not damage the threads by forcing the rod into the holes. Thread one of the nut down the rod about 1" from the non-thread end. Slide a washer down on top of the nut.

Silicon the thread above the washer generously. While moving the support strap out of the way slide the rod up from the bottom making sure the compression tube is properly in place. Fill the recess hole in the bottom black anodized mast support casting with silicone. Silicone the other side of the mast support casting. Push the rod up to allow placement of the mast support casting on the strap. Once the casting is properly located, slide the rod back down into the casting recess squeezing out any excess silicone. While holding the rod in the fully down position (into the recess in the mast support casting) thread the lower nut by hand up against the bottom of the beam. When tight, hold the nut in place and turn the rod by hand until tight. Wrap some tape around the rod in the middle of the non-threaded part. This tape will protect the rod from being scarred when holding it with the wise grips. Secure the wise grips to the rod tightly. Using a 7/8" wrench tighten the lower nut 7 half turns (3 1/2 full turns) making sure the rod does not turn. Note **8 to 9 half turns on a 11 ft wide boats. NOTE: The age, ware and strength of beam hardware will vary. The structure intent of pretentioning the Dolphin Striker Rod is to create a slight bow in the beam. (the center is up to 1/2" higher than the ends). Slide the upper washer onto the rod and then thread the nut down. Holding the lower nut secure with one wrench tighten the upper nut very firmly with the second wrench. Clean away any excess silicone with a rag and acetone. Thread the new mast ball onto the rod.