add topping lift to S2 7.3?

[enoon]

Our S2 7.3 does not have a topping lift, which makes reefing difficult We have to clip the boom to the back stay to keep it from falling into the cockpit, which can be challenging in a strong breeze. We are thinking of adding a topping lift, but the leech of our mainsail would extend a bit past the line. Has anyone added a topping lift? Are there pros/cons we should be aware of?

 

[Jackdaw]

Adding a boomkicker would solve both problems, as well as give you more control over sail shape. A great product.

http://www.boomkicker.com/

 

[enoon]

This looks like an ideal solution--we'll give it a try. Thanks!

 

[Dan DeNeal]

My 7.3 has a topping lift that is simply attached to the back stay a couple of feet above the boom height. But the boomkicker would be the best thing.

 

[cogilvie]

Most likely you have solved this but for what it is worth my 7.3 has a topping lift that is attached the head and goes through a small pulley inside the boom. About the middle of the boom there is another pulley exiting to a cleat on the boom and I can adjust the lift tension at the cleat.

 

[BobM]

I have a fixed cable that comes down from the masthead. It is a pain in the ass. Don't do that.

 

[StanFM]

We have a line from the masthead down and clipped on to the rear of the boom. I can change it's length and alter the sail set, plus get the boom up higher in the cockpit when at anchor. So far, it has worked ok for us.

 

[enoon]

We installed a boom kicker--it works beautifully for us.