Disassemble furling gear before unstepping?

[Martin Cole]

I need to have the local yard remove my deck-stepped mast for some work. I'm concerned about possible damage to my headsail furling gear (Furlex). Is it better to completely disassemble the furler and remove it before having the mast unstepped? Or should I just trust the (large, well-respected) rigging company to prevent any damage? This is my first boat (Hunter 28) and first time removing the mast, so I don't have any personal experience to draw from.Thanks,Martin Coles/v Ares

 

[Jeff Bacon]

Be there...

...when the mast is stepped. Probably your best defense against damage or misuse. Probably no need to disassemble, but you can probably cut the expense signifigantly by doing all of the prep work yourself, such as, sail removal, line/halyard removal if necessary, cotter pin removal at the chainplates etc. All easy stuff, but time consuming. I also wrap a towel around the furling gear to help guard against the yard dragging it across the deck and damaging the gelcoat.Good luck......Jeff

 

[Bill O'Donovan]

Done that

Any competent yard can dismast the main by keeping the furling system intact with the forestay. They have no reason or inclination to take it off first. The towel idea is excellent.

 

[Kevin]

Leaving it on won't be a problem

Martin, Up here where the boats come out of the water every fall most masts are taken down before the boat comes out. Everybody leaves the furler attached.The greatest risk is bending an extrusion. Usually one person is assigned to handle the jibstay/furler and walk it off the boat as the mast is lowered.Since you have a deck stepped mast the jibstay and furler will be longer than the mast and you or the yard people should plan to brace the unsupported furler drum once the mast is horizontal. Something like a piece of 2x3 straped to the mast and the drum will work.Kevin