Forestay

[rbarclay]

I own a 1991 28' Catalina which I just discovered has a frayed forestay. I called Catalina today and was given a real BS answer when asked "Can I purchase a new forestay for my 28'?. I was told they would sell me all or nothing. Maybe I should consider a Hunter or Beneteau for my next boat. Anyway...

Any suggestions on where to purchase a new forestay?

 

[Joe]

all of what?

I'm not getting it. What exactly did they mean? do you have to buy the turnbuckle too?

 

[Patrick , S/V Shangra-La]

Go to any rigging shop

Take your forestay with you and they can make you up a new one. Tahe the bottom turnbuckle with you and show them where the threads are in the turnbuckle where the stay is tight they can then make it a little shorter to allow for stretch.

 

[jviss]

Consider making it

I understand Catalina only sells complete sets. Consider purchasing the wire and Sta-Lok fitting and making it. I have done this. It's a better part when you're done.

 

[Kadima]

Securing the mast

Has anyone replaced the forestay without taking the mast down? If so, how did you secure the mast when removing the head stay?

 

[Dave]

Replace Rigging

If your forestay is failing, the rest of your rigging may be in need of replacement as well. Catalina is wise to sell only full sets. Actually it is an insurance/risk-management decision, given the litigious nature of people who don't take resposibility for their mistakes. No implications being made about you. Just stating the facts.

 

[rbarclay]

Removing the forestay

Yes. This last weekend I secured the jib halyard to the winch and cleat, then removed the furler system from the bow. I then, believe it or not, climbed the mast to remove the forestay from the top of the mast. The mast is still supported by the side stays and the halyard. Worked great. Just can't find a replacement stay.

 

[Kadima]

Securing rig with halyard

Thanks for the response. I had been told to use the halyard as support. Which end of the halyard did you secure? How did you prevent the halyard from pulling through the top of the mast?