Main Halyard Block

[SubVet]

Can't seem to locate the proper block to replace the original on my 1988 Pearson 27. Can I use a D-ring to secure a newer block to the 6mm mounting pin at the foot of the mast (pardon my terminology)? Measuring the sheave on the original, it would support up to 9/16" rope and what is installed is about that diameter (need to go measure again) but the clevis pin is 6mm and attaches directly to the mast foot on the original block. Only thing I've found that is close is this:

http://www.westmarine.com/buy/lewmar--60mm-synchro-halyard-block--13061841

and don't think this will support the halyard that was just installed by the prior owner.

 

[DougM]

Can't seem to locate the proper block to replace the original on my 1988 Pearson 27. Can I use a D-ring to secure a newer block to the 6mm mounting pin at the foot of the mast (pardon my terminology)? Measuring the sheave on the original, it would support up to 9/16" rope and what is installed is about that diameter (need to go measure again) but the clevis pin is 6mm and attaches directly to the mast foot on the original block. Only thing I've found that is close is this:

http://www.westmarine.com/buy/lewmar--60mm-synchro-halyard-block--13061841

and don't think this will support the halyard that was just installed by the prior owner.

The block you are referencing is very similar to the turning blocks at the base of the mast on my boat. I believe they would be adequate for your Pearson. There rally is not much working load on the block once the sail is hoisted. Most of the load is on the slugs in the mast track and fairly evenly distributed when sailing.

 

[SubVet]

Thank You!

 

[Dave Groshong]

That 60mm Lewmar Synchro is the right size, as is the Harken 57mm, give me a call if you'd like to discuss this further. Here's a few links to those pages of our site:

http://shop.sailboatowners.com/prod.php?13841

http://shop.sailboatowners.com/prod.php?13782

3/8 inch is the proper line size for the halyards.

Toll Free 877-932-7245

 

[SubVet]

Thanks Dave! This is a different kind of "boat" from my experiences. Having sailed for many years but never an owner and now, buying a 26 year old boat, there is much that needs to be done to find the right "stuff".... I will be happy to share all my experiences here and look forward to great discussions on this forum. I'm also glad to see that some of the items I need are right here in the "Store"... Port screens and gaskets are on my list of things to do...

 

[Ron20324]

9/16 line? I'd think 3/8 for your 27. That's what is on my 323.

 

[SubVet]

9/16 line? I'd think 3/8 for your 27. That's what is on my 323.

Yeah, I'm guessing it was more about the feel rather than the need, but I believe that is what is currently up. May need to change it out and then build some spring lines or something...

 

[Joe]

9/16 is way, way too large for any piece of running rigging on your 27 footer. 3/8 max, or even better for halyards 5/16. The smaller diameter line will run a lot better through the turning block, but more importantly, through the mast head sheave. If your current halyard is puffy and soft with age... I would recommend replacing it with a higher quality low stretch product.

On my sailboat, I built tapered halyards to replace the old wire/rope type. They have a 3/16 dyneema core like this Samson Amsteel http://www.apsltd.com/c-1492-amsteel-blue-samson.aspx with inexpensive 5/16 spun polyester Samson Trophy Braid http://www.apsltd.com/c-9471-trophy-braid-samson.aspx covering the back half of the halyard that is handled and cleated.

The core of the 5/16 cover is used as a messenger to pull the new dyneema core into position. A "cover" splice buries the cover into the core... very easy splice...instructions available on Samson website.

Finally, a "luggage tag" or long loop eye splice is woven into the core for the shackle. The luggage tag splice allows you to bend on or remove the shackle when desired.

The finished product is a super strong halyard that is light and free running through a smaller, more affordable block.

 

[Chris Patterson]

Thems wise words Joe. I too have made the mistake of 'big-boating' this little Ericson, and finally have got 3/8" back on my halyards. I had lines so thick they would barely wrap a cleat. The main sheet is still so big I'm utterly satisfied I could pull the boom in half.....if the traveller didn't come up first. The lines just DO ride in the sheaves, and it was stupid on my behalf.

I'm an 'over engineer' on everything, but this is one fer instance where overkill is just not good..

 

[SubVet]

Thanks for the advice and tips. I will need to change the halyard when the blocks come in. Guess I can use that relatively new line to make some spring lines or something, maybe brush up on some macrame...