Abstract: An apparatus for separating mating cylindrical members, for example mating sections of a sailboard mast. The apparatus includes either a pair of support elements or a block element and a lever arm. Each of the pair of support elements and the block element is configured to receive one of the mating sections of the sailboard mast and the lever arm is configured to receive the other of the mating sections of the sailboard mast. Connecting elements are provided for frictionally holding one of the mating sections of the sailboard mast to either the support elements or the block element and for frictionally holding the other of the mating sections of the sailboard mast to the lever arm. In operation, the lever arm is moved so as to apply a torsional force to the other of the mating section of the sailboard mast while the one of the mating sections of the sailboard mast is held in position either in the pair of support elements or in the block clement.