Keep Original or go with double joint toggle in its place?

[RobertLangdirect]

This is from my 1978 Pearson 31', hull #14, GOOD TRADE. Her forestay was halyard wrapped and I am now replacing it, as well as fixing the furler.

Referencing the large stainless steel mass to the right of the mast as you view it in the picture, what is the purpose of the mass and can I or should I replace it with a double jointed toggle?

Thank you!
RobertLangDirect "AT" Verizon.net is a good e-mail if you are shy on the public posting.

 

[woodster]

Re: Keep Original or go with double joint toggle in its plac

my guess is its a toggle extention...maybe the stay was to short...but then i am just guessing......

regards

woody

 

[kloudie1]

Re: Keep Original or go with double joint toggle in its plac

I agree Woody.. It may have been made to accomodate a short stay.. A double jointed toggle would be OK to replace it or you could re use that part after making sure there are no cracks in it .. Look very closely at the saddle shaped part that the stay pins into.. and the pare that piins onto the mast for wear and oblong holes and cracks.. If it isn't broken, don't fix it..

 

[Ron20324]

Re: Keep Original or go with double joint toggle in its plac

Alot of boats would have two separate 'tangs' instead of the piece you have. Yours, being one piece, is stronger. Plus, it spaces the toggles away from the othe mast fitting. I agree, it is probably OEM, so don't mess with what works. IF you take it apart in the future, I'd swap it end-for-end.

 

[RobertLangdirect]

Re: Keep Original or go with double joint toggle in its plac

Thank you, Ron, Kloudie, and Woodster.

I do appreciate the advice, "If it isn't broken, don't fix it." From 35 feet below it is hard to see all the parts involved but I think that this may actually drop over the upper pulley. Maybe on a bright day we can get a good shot with the camera.

Thanks again.