Aluminium Fixed Mast Steps

Specifications & Features

• Aluminium fixed mast steps - Fastened either by screws or pop rivets.
• Finish: Anodised Aluminium. It gives superior corrosion performance and mechanical protection properties to the surface.
• Fasteners: Not included.
• Material: Aluminium. Suggested distance for installation between steps is 60 cm (24") per side (30 cm (12") every other side).

Installation Guide

1. Planning and Spacing

   The spacing you suggested (50–60 cm) is a standard "tall" step. While 40 cm is easier to climb, it requires more steps (more weight and cost).

   • The Layout: You are correct to alternate them on the sides of the mast. This mimics a natural climbing motion.
   • The Top Pair: At the masthead, placing two steps at the same height is essential. This creates a stable platform to stand on while working with both hands on the rigging or masthead instruments.
2. Marking and Center Punching
   • Measure twice: Use a long tape measure or a marked string to ensure the spacing remains consistent all the way up.
   • The Center Punch: This is a crucial step. Without a punch mark, the drill bit will "walk" across the curved, slippery surface of the aluminium mast, scratching the finish and resulting in crooked steps.
3. Drilling and Corrosion Prevention

   This is the most important addition to your process. Since you are likely using stainless steel rivets or screws on an aluminium mast, you are mixing two different metals.

   • Galvanic Corrosion: To prevent the stainless steel from seizing or corroding the aluminium (which can cause the steps to fail over time), you must apply an isolation barrier.
   • The Solution: Use a specialised anti-corrosion paste (like Tef-Gel or Duralac) on every hole and every rivet/fastener before installation.
4. Installation Sequence

   Your "drill one, rivet one" method is the safest way to ensure alignment.

   • Pilot Hole: Drill the first hole.
   • Temporary Fix: Secure the step with one rivet.
   • Final Drilling: While the step is held in place by the first rivet, drill the remaining holes through the step’s mounting flange. This ensures the holes in the mast align perfectly with the holes in the step.
   • Final Riveting: Apply your isolation paste and pop the remaining rivets.
5. Safety & Pro Tips
   • Safety: Always use a high-quality climbing harness and a secondary safety line (halyard) when testing the steps for the first time.