Need Help Identifying boom lines ...

[John Paoletti]

Recently bought a 1994 Hunter 23.5 and have asked many questions and received some great answers. Now come one that's stumpped me:When I bought the boat, the mast, and boom were down, and most of the lines pulled. This past weekend, I raised the mask and attached the boom. The main and Jib halyards run correctly, but I'm not sure about the boom setup.There are 3 lines running through the boom that I'm not sure if they are run properly, and exactly how they shoulb be attached. Could someone please explain where they attach - where on the mail sail, and where they run on the hardware.Also, there is a fixed line ( 3/8" ) that runs from the top of the mast and has 2 clips on the end. I'm thinking they attach to the end of the boom, but again need some advise.Any help sure would be appreciated.

 

[Jon Bastien]

3 lines in boom

Not exactly sure about which is which with your boom, but I would venture that the three lines are:The topping lift- Runs straight through the boom, out the end, and attaches to a line that goes to the top of the mast. This is probably what the 3/8" line with the clips is for. This line allows you to adjust the height of your boom (or raise it out of the cockpit when not sailing).The Outhaul- Usually runs through a block inside the boom for mechanical advantage, is usually in center position coming out of boom, and may be wire on aft-most end of boom. This attaches to the clew of the main sail, and allows you to pull the foot of the sail tight.The reefing line- Again, straight through the boom. This one comes from the aft end of the boom, through an eye on the leech of the main sail, and then straight down to a bail on the boom. This line is used when you're reefing the main (shortening sail). If the boom is anything like the one on my H23, then there are some "jaws" that clamp down on the lines at the forward end of the boom. These keep the lines from moving when you've got tension on them, avoiding the need for three cleats on the mast or boom. These are just my guesses, your mileage may vary.--Jon BastienH23 '2 Sheets to the Wind'H25 'Adagio'

 

[Rick Webb]

Exactly

The lines on my 23.5 are exactly as Jon describes.

 

[Ed Knebel]

layout of lines

The three lines are:port side= reef line that goes thru reef grommet on leech of sail, then ties to sliding loop on underside of boom.center line= outhaul for mailsailstarboard line= topping lift for boom, clips to fixed line from top of mast. It is helpful to tie a stopper knot at the height you want the boom to be at with sails down. That way you don't drop the boom on you crew.Enjoy the new boat!