Has anybody had to change the wind vane on the top of their mast? Mine broke and I thought I would ask around so I can learn from others... plus dont want to fall 
Thanks Tom
Thanks Tom
Changing the Weather Vane
- Thread starter Tom23300
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Check the archives about going aloft
I did this in February and found out that there is a newer type of Windex which has a spike to keep the birds away.
I did this in February and found out that there is a newer type of Windex which has a spike to keep the birds away.
I made five trips up and down
and tried several methods. Jumar ascenders were a little tricky by themselves since I was not used to them and the swaying. I tried to use the four part ratcheting block and tackle setup which would work ok except that by the time I got up there, I was too exhausted to get much done plus it was so cold that my hands and arms went numb and I could not get much done. The best method I found was for me to assist the deck winching guy by using one Jumar on the second halyard to help lift myself. My friend was winching the main halyard. If you can get a mast ladder, that would be the best I can think of. One other variable is whether to use a bosun chair or a climbing harness. One or the other would cut off circulation to my legs during my project. Brion Toss has a lot to say on this subject. Check his website for more information from a professional rigger. Also, whatever gear you choose, get it at a place like REI. West Marine climbing gear is way more money than it is worth. I found that the windex base would not come off even with a hammer so I just left it in place and replaced the upper part of the unit by loosening the setscrew and pulling out the old one.
and tried several methods. Jumar ascenders were a little tricky by themselves since I was not used to them and the swaying. I tried to use the four part ratcheting block and tackle setup which would work ok except that by the time I got up there, I was too exhausted to get much done plus it was so cold that my hands and arms went numb and I could not get much done. The best method I found was for me to assist the deck winching guy by using one Jumar on the second halyard to help lift myself. My friend was winching the main halyard. If you can get a mast ladder, that would be the best I can think of. One other variable is whether to use a bosun chair or a climbing harness. One or the other would cut off circulation to my legs during my project. Brion Toss has a lot to say on this subject. Check his website for more information from a professional rigger. Also, whatever gear you choose, get it at a place like REI. West Marine climbing gear is way more money than it is worth. I found that the windex base would not come off even with a hammer so I just left it in place and replaced the upper part of the unit by loosening the setscrew and pulling out the old one.
Best way for everyone
... is a good harness and a pair of ascenders. One for your upper body and the other for your feet. I'm and old fart and I can climb my 55' mast in a couple of minutes. You just sit and stand your way to the top. Best of all nobody on deck has to 'crank' my big ass up the mast. The return trip is easier. The crew just eases the halyard down. Also, with a climbing harness there is no chance of falling. You could have a heart attack up there and still not be able to fall.
... is a good harness and a pair of ascenders. One for your upper body and the other for your feet. I'm and old fart and I can climb my 55' mast in a couple of minutes. You just sit and stand your way to the top. Best of all nobody on deck has to 'crank' my big ass up the mast. The return trip is easier. The crew just eases the halyard down. Also, with a climbing harness there is no chance of falling. You could have a heart attack up there and still not be able to fall.
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