wood mast repair

[ssittler]

A careless forklift driver has gouged the midportion of my hollow (unstayed, junk rig) D. fir foremast. The gouge was about 8" long x a quarter-inch deep at deepest point, with a raised splinter and fine cracks to either side. I have carved out all visible (7x loupe) damage to the curve of a # seven bent gouge and epoxied in a 8" x 1.5" dutchman. S. Smith of Smith Epoxies thinks I should wrap the area with kevlar tape to restore "hoop strength"; at West system they recommended fibreglass, 'being careful to avoid a hard spot'. Suggestions as to the pattern and extent of this lamination would be greatly appreciated. Keelhaul the driver too?
thanks, ss

[Jay Greer]

Actually, since the gouge is only a quarter inch deep and I hope, in line with the length of the spar, it doesn't sound as if any strength has been lost. I would be inclined to not worry too much about it.

However, the final decision should be your own. He who listens to too much good advice, ends up making other people's mistakes!

Jay