I tried to scan a sketch for you, but was unable to make it show up here. So I'll try to describe it. At the top of your mast is the mast head, with a structure projecting to the aft side (I think its called the "crane"). The back stay connects to the mast head at the back of the crane. An couple of inches in front of the pin connecting the backstay is another pin (also about 1/4" diameter). The topping lift is connected there. Procedurally, the easiest way is to tie a small loop in the end of the topping lift using a bowline, pull the pin, insert the loop between the sides of the crane and fasten it in place with the pin, making sure to secure the pin with the cotter pin. The topping lift then goes down to the port side of the aft end of the boom, runs through the boom to exit under the port side (red) lever, which controls it. There are two other levers, the center is your outhaul and the starboard controls the jiffy reef. When you raise the mast, put the aft end of the boom near the base of the mast, otherwise you'll be trying to pick the boom up during the last few feet of raising the mast, and having to support it until you get the forestay fastened. Good luck.
Jim Kolstoe, h23 Kara's Boo
