The following article will describe the procedure I used to remove the compression post in a 94 H26. Generally, you can correct most leaks coming from the top or bottom of the post by packing more sealant around it as well as the bottom of the post around the stainless plate without need for removal. I needed to replace my CB line and I was getting leaks on top and bottom of post so I decided to overhaul the whole thing and re-seal like new. Hopefully, the pictures and description will help you decide if you want or need to take on this project. The first thing to understand is the components of the assembly. The parts are very simple and straight forward (See Pic# 1). The compression post is actually a 2 piece assembly consisting of a stainless post (tube) on which the mast step plate is permanently welded and the bottom plate which sits on top of CB trunk under dining table. The CB line runs through the post and exits just under the mast step plate. The hole in cabin top that the compression post passes through is solid on all sides. This means that as long as there is sealant between post and hole sides it will be waterproof. Over time the sealant may break down and crack which allows water to trickle down the post into the cabin. This is the issue I had. The bottom of the post sits inside a round receiving piece which is part of the bottom plate assembly. The following process is easier with 2 people, but can be done alone (as I did).

Step 1. Remove the 4 screws holding down the mast step plate.

Step 2. Remove the 2 compression post retaining screws at base of post.

Step 3. Lift table free of locking pin and remove the pin from post. Step 4. Free your deck side CB line so that it is no longer attached to anything and free of all sheaves except under mast plate. Step 5. Using large flat screwdriver or other pry tool **Gently** pry the mast step plate off the deck.

Be careful not to place too much pressure on gelcoat as you will crack it. Try various spots around the plate so as to lift and break sealant evenly (use of a solvent like Debond 2000 can be helpful here). Remember that as you lift the post out, the table will need to be supported and centered so that post does not bind on it (this is where a second person comes in handy). Continue to lift post and break seal. Twisting the assembly helps break the sealant. Once free, lift the post completely out (remember the table) and pull CB line free from post. Post will come out as 1 piece.

Step 6. Clean/scrape all sealant from both ends of post until only smooth stainless remains. Clean short receiving tube on bottom plate of all sealant. Use coarse steel wool to remove any rust or stubborn sealant if necessary. Step 7. Once everything is clean and tidy, reverse procedure to replace all components in the proper location. Make sure to use an enormous amount of 3M 5200 under mast plate, in deck hole around the post (youll want to go back and hand pack as much as possible here from inside after post is reinstalled) and in receiving tube on bottom plate. Be mindful of the CB line and try not to get sealant on it if possible. Step 8. Make sure all screws are tight and sealed. Assembly should be left to cure for at least 1 week before stepping mast and using boat. Note: If you are also removing bottom plate (top of CB Trunk) to reseal then after step 5 follow the procedure outline in separate article posted here.