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G10 is fiberglass and epoxy laminate that is highly compressed and I believe is heat cured. It looks like thick plastic sheet. The mast step, as designed, was supposed to be bolted at each corner. Modifying it by cutting the corners required the redrilling of mounting holes on either side of the mast. I assume there was flex fore and aft -faulty rig tuning or poor design?- and that's why it cracked at the mounting holes, but really not sure. Maybe just spending it life on San Francisco Bay took its toll. I've seen one other with the same issue, though not as severe as mine. It had in mast furling as well.

Scott, I am including pics of the original manufacturers(Sparcraft) mast step, and the one that was removed from my boat. Rather than modify a new one it was decided was to mill a complete new step from a piece of g10. Unfortunately, I don't have a pic of it and the boat has regrettably been sold. Sure do miss her. Steve

Thanks for posting the pics, Jim. I was thinking the nuts in the cabin top were for the compression post. I can see the crack on one side extends under the mast so I have scheduled to have the mast pulled on Thursday. Will post what is found.

Yes the in-mast furling is a different setup. I will try to add a pic.

Just wondering if anyone with in mast furling has had problems with factory mast step cracking. Mine has cracked at both bolt holes. I sent photos to the mast and step manufacturer, and was told the step as manufactured has four bolt holding it in place. Mine has been modified....I assume by Catalina at manufacture. Cut marks are clearly seen on the step itself. Catalina tech rep said he has not heard of any problems on the 34's. Would be grateful to hear and see what experience and fixes others have had.