1971 Pop Top help

[Meis]

I have a 1971 O'Day 23 with a "pop top' feature on it. I have had the boat for eight years and have not attempted to "raise" the top. Now that I have some more time and have done some restoration on the boat I am ready to attempt to do so. The problem I have is that I do not know exactly how to do so.

Does anyone have an "owners manual" for this make and year, or can anyone give me some specifics. I can immaginse that the rope used in the pully system could use some replacements. ANY help is appreciated.

 

[ruidh]

What do you want to know?

Do you have the crank? The "rope" is a metal cable. Mine (also a '71) is still in good shape. It may be hard to crank up the first time. There's a foam rubber gasket between the top and the deck that can stick. A gentle pry with a Wonder Bar might help free it. Make sure the four clasps are undone and put the pins in when it's up all the way. The ratchet on mine is almost completely worn so I never leave it partway up.

There shouldn't be any weight on the cabin top when you crank it up. I loosen the main sheet and close the companionway hatch. Watch the hole in the top as the aft-facing cleat will come through it. I have a boot around the mast that I partially undo to keep it out of the way. If things feel stuck part way up, stop and look around for something keeping the top from moving up. Occasionally, the boom will stick in the slot and cause a hangup.