Need to attach a small cleat to the boom

[Jerry Moritz]

Well here I am again asking for advice. I need to attach a small plastic cleat to boom and I am being told everything that will not work. Question is what type of screw should I use. This is for the boom lift I am adding. Being told not to go with SS but no one can tell me what will work best with aluminum. Can anyone help?While I have your attention can anyone give me the proper reefing line runs for my 1984 hunter 34?Last I am looking at new sails would North sails 3DL help with my boat proformance?Thank you again, this foram has been a great help to this new boat owner.Sail till you dropJerry MoritzHunter 34 "III Sheets II The Wind"

 

[Alan]

Re: cleat

You should use aluminum rivets. There will be no galvanic action, and they are easily drilled out for removal. However, may I suggest that you get rid of the boom topping lift all together. There is no need for it and it adds weight aloft. Instead consider a good solid vang. A vang is an essential sail control that if you are looking to sail properly you need to have. As far as new sails go, almost any new sails from a reputable loft will help boat speed. Don't get hung up on advertising. If the local North loft has a good reputation then go with him, but not because of hype!

 

[Terry Cox, Hunter 42, Belle-Vie]

Jerry, I've used aluminum pop rivets before...

and they seem to work well. This begs another question. How is your topping lift rigged, and why do you want the cleat on the boom? There are other ways to rig your topping lift.Terry