This is definitely not original equipment. My first guess as to its origin is that it might have been for an inner forestay. From your description, though, the tang is placed too low to serve that purpose. If you choose to use it as a spinnaker rig, you need to double check the track on deck. If it is not properly backed you could rip it out of its setting.

You are dealing with older technology on this extrusion. Your best bet is to go to Isomat who most likely made your specific mast. They are listed on our web site resources page.

The first task would be to make sure that the leak is fully secured. If you are uncomfortable cutting and fitting the plywood replacement you would best be advised to use a yard carpenter to do this job.

This is going to be a fairly involved job, but I am sure it can be done. We suggest you contact Edson Marine and talk to them about this conversion. They know the Pearson line well since they supplied all the steering systems for the entire production line. You can call them at 508-995-9711 or check them out on our online resources page.

This is not a question we can answer without precise information from original production plans, which are no longer available to us. If you are thinking of carrying passengers for hire, this requires strict compliance with the US Coast Guard sub chapter 10 regulations. These are very tough standards and not within our realm of expertise to address. One thing we could state, however, is that without modification, a stock production power boat like this wouldn’t meet the requirements.

Most likely it’s a 1982 that was registered in 1983. Pearson made a 23-foot model that came in a few different versions—the 23K (with a deep keep), the 23 Cat, and the 23 CB (a centerboard model). None of them were produced after 1982. Forty-two P23 Cats were produced in 1982. This is the Cat rigged version of that model.

We do not have access to the data that would tell us exactly which model transmission was used in your P530. You should find a plate on the housing of the unit with that information on it. The engine room on the 530 is large enough, with standing room in some sections, that you should be able to identify the model number and contact the manufacturer or a distributor near you.

Regretfully, I have no written information on this configuration. The Invicta was already being phased out when I joined the company so my memory doesn't serve here either. Your problem is potentially serious if the leak is seeping into the lamination of the hull. I strongly suggest you have your yard take a close look at the unit and make a recommendation as to what needs to be done.

In the early 1980s, a new boating safety act was written called "Rules and Regulations for Recreational Boats." It appeared in the Federal Register, the US Code and the Code of Federal Regs (CFR). As written, it was very difficult to understand.

The USCG was charged with upholding the regs. The American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) was given the task of rewriting these regs so that both builders and public could understand them. But they are still complex and are upgraded often.

At Pearson, our engineering department was required to maintain the regulations, but even at the time we were in business, they couldn’t have given you a simple answer. To meet USCG requirements, you must meet the US Code and the Code of Federal Regulations. Because the requirements are changed from time-to-time, builders have to continually update their information in order to meet them. I would not approve his wiring, but not being active in the industry any more, I’m no longer familiar with current code, so I couldn’t make a specific recommendation.