Need for topping lift?

[Jack Kelly]

Just read the responses to another inquiry about this... We have a 23 - never set it up with a topping lift - we have simply used the main halyard to hold the boom up when on the slip. Any disadvantage to this? I usually have crew and they just hold the boom up until we bring the halyard aft. One of the responses said the topping lift sometimes gets in the way when sailing... Thanks!

 

[Chip Tobey]

I did away with mine

and replaced it with a rigid boom vang. However, I would think that asking crew to hold the boom while raising or dropping the mainsail might get old, and am having trouble seeing how you manage it when under power or docked. But I cannot think of a practical reason you need a topping lift.

 

[Bill O'Donovan]

Good idea

Simplicity rules.

 

[Chip Tobey]

On further reflection

the topping lift can be used to change sail shape (i.e. to sail more efficiently ... faster). In other words, it does do more than simply keep the boom from flopping around in the cockpit.

 

[Wanderer138]

Here's one reason for having a topping lift

It can be used to jury rig a backstay (see link below to a current post in this forum). To prevent the topping lift from getting in the way when sailing, slacken it a bit more. More uses for the topping lift:a) keeps bimini off the deck when not in useb) good place to tie light line to keep birds off mainsail coverc) good handhold when standing and motoringd) good place to hang flagPeterH23 "Raven"

 

[Ed]

US Flag should go either...

On a staff from the transom, or from the rear stay - not the topping lift. Look up Flag ettiquette in "Chapman's Piloting".~ Happy sails to you ~ _/) ~

 

[crazy dave]

real purpose

the primary purpose for a topping lift is to keep the boom out of the cockpit. Peter Suah pretty much summed up the other reasons. If you wish to spend the bucks, buy a rigid boom vang. However, if anyone says you do not need it on the 23, then they crazier than I am.Crazy Dave Condon