Fittings for spinnaker halyard on Hunter 356

[Musetta]

I am planning to install a spinnaker halyard on my 2004 Hunter 356. I have not been up the mast yet but took a look through binoculars. Besides the slot in the mast with a sheave for the halyard, I see that there is a u-shaped fitting about 3 inches below the slot. Perhaps it is a fairlead for the halyard, although that hardly seems necessary. Does anyone know its purpose?
Tom Walton

 

[ahansom10482]

Your right its a fairlead for the spinnaker halyard. Works just as you described. Because the sheave doesn't swivel it helps prevent chafe with side loads.

Good Luck
Andy H