I would like to build an A-Frame type system to help steady the mast while raising and lowering. The mast seems to want to sway, side to side, much more than we are comfortable with. This seems to be greatly exaggerated by our roller furler and any movement of people in the boat.
I’ve read everything I could find on this forum and the Tech Manuals at catalina22.org, and watched a ton of YouTube videos. I think I’ve settled on copying the ideas in this video:
Basically, it uses a gooseneck fitting and pipe to make a simple A-Frame that is able to slide in the sail track.
Has anyone done this?
My plan, like the video, uses a gooseneck fitting, and two “pads” made of 2x6 cut to fit on the cabin top between the pop top and hand rails. I’m intending on using ½” or ¾”conduit as the poles?
Any thoughts on how high up the mast you would want the gooseneck? Seems like the taller the A-Frame the more stability it would provide? The poles in the video appear about 5’ but I’ve seen other systems that are much taller.
Any issues using a system like this?
We are way beyond the idea of just tying the mainsheet to the forestay (or halyard) and pulling. While this does work, this has not proven to be an adequately safe system for us, again likely due to the weight of the furler.
I’m also planning to build a gin pole with a brake winch.
I’ve read the post “Un-stepping mast disaster” and have no interest in having a similar issue, if it can be prevented.
As always pics and measurements are greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Douglas
I’ve read everything I could find on this forum and the Tech Manuals at catalina22.org, and watched a ton of YouTube videos. I think I’ve settled on copying the ideas in this video:
Basically, it uses a gooseneck fitting and pipe to make a simple A-Frame that is able to slide in the sail track.
Has anyone done this?
My plan, like the video, uses a gooseneck fitting, and two “pads” made of 2x6 cut to fit on the cabin top between the pop top and hand rails. I’m intending on using ½” or ¾”conduit as the poles?
Any thoughts on how high up the mast you would want the gooseneck? Seems like the taller the A-Frame the more stability it would provide? The poles in the video appear about 5’ but I’ve seen other systems that are much taller.
Any issues using a system like this?
We are way beyond the idea of just tying the mainsheet to the forestay (or halyard) and pulling. While this does work, this has not proven to be an adequately safe system for us, again likely due to the weight of the furler.
I’m also planning to build a gin pole with a brake winch.
I’ve read the post “Un-stepping mast disaster” and have no interest in having a similar issue, if it can be prevented.
As always pics and measurements are greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Douglas