We just bought a 1988 Beneteau First 285 and are new to stepping a mast this size. The boat was just transported and we need information on re-rigging. Thanks.
I agree with Cindy. A mast this size will do some damage if it gets away from you while trying to step it using nothing but muscle. A marina with a gin pole is a big help, otherwise use a crane. You need to put a
loose sling aroung the mast just below the spreaders and then lift the mast into place. Guiding it into place is easy and once in place connecting the shrouds, forestay and backstay will make sure it stays up. Rigging the mast is easy and it is self evident how everything goes but tuning it properly for racing needs some advice from Beneteau. Just don't overtighten everything so that you have a permanent bend. You can deliberately put a bend in the mast using the backstay adjuster (this flattens the main for heavy air). With the backstay adjuster off, you should have a nice straight mast that is centered on the boat.
Cindy also mentioned going to a folding prop. I did the same thing with my Liberty Edition 285 and it made about 1 knot difference to our speed under, moderate wind conditions. That took us from placing last in every race, pre folding prop, to placing in the top three for every race since then. The difference is huge and even if you never race it is worth it for cruising as well.
