Help with Boom Rigging

[DandridgeGuy]

Recently I purchased a 1986 Hunter 23. We got the mast up and all was great...then we began to install the boom. The booklet says it is a Kenyon model. Three questions: Do we install a rope from the top of the mast to support the boom? (There was an extra rope and we did not think about this until the mast was set all was tight!!) Will any mainsail bag from the order form here work? I do not know what is meant by Lazy Jack, etc. Finally, the cabin has evidently had water in it and the order is quite foul. How to clean carpet and eliminate order? Over the winter we will replace cracked plastic window and some bad seals. Thanks. DandridgeGuy

 

[Michael]

I'll try to help. On the 23 you need what is called a topping lift. That's a fancy term for a line that comes from the top of the mast to the back of the boom to hold the boom up when not sailing. Usually the line is adjustable at the cabin top or on the mast.You don't have rope, you have lines.Usually sailbags are all about the same size, though they are not necessary if you flod your sail correctly. You can then put it in an old pillow case if you want.Odor is always a problem. Usually results from mold. Several things can be done. Take everything out of the boat and clean it with a good detergent such as PineSol or similar. The check the bilge, clead it with a good bilge cleaner. If there is wood in side clean it with soap and water. When dry coat the wood a couple of time each season with lemon oil. Use a brush the first time and after an hour wipe off the excess. Open the boat up periodically and dry it out. Heat and wetness equals mold and odor.There are many good books fot the novice and experienced sailor such as Chapman's that tell everything you may want to know about rigging, lazy jacks and more.Hope this helps.Michaelmsosborn@msn.com