correct way of hanging a boom

[bill]

I have just purchased a 986 h23. The boom is currently hung by a 3/8" line from the mast. Would I be better off running a line from the backstay?

 

[scott]

No

As I understand you have a mast head topping lift and wonder if if you change to a back stay/boom end topping lift. Mast head topping lift can come in handy because you can swing the boom outboard at anchor and use the boom in the same position as a lifting point for MOB or getting the OB into/off the tender, You can use the mast head topping lift a temp back stay if there is rig failure. The donwside of the short boomend/back stay topping lift is that at some point you will forget to unclip it after you raise the sail and then all hell breaks loose because you can't break loose the topping lift as the boat bears away from the wind.Scott

 

[bil]

thanks...

I have seen other boats with the boom being clipped to the backstay. My main concern is the strength of the line. When the 23 was produced in 1986, how did Hunter suggest that that the boom be hung? Was it with a line coming from the topping lift?

 

[crazy dave]

Bil

That pretty much sums up what Hunter offered on the boat in way of a topping lift which is a single line from the mast head or top of the mast to the boom. If you have to replace then drop the mast and put another oone on. You can use line or have a lifeline style which will last and not fail on you. The idea of the mast falling is remote. As for attachement to the end of the boom, there were several changes or the former owner or owners may have changed it. Post a picture to my attention and I will be glad to comment.You could get a rod kicker which supports the boom and do away with the topping lift.