Removing the headstay momentarily

[Charles Oday 240]

Hi experts!

I have an Oday 240 and when stepping the mast this season I put the headstay on backwards so it is difficult to pull in the roller reefing. I cruised for a week and it worked fine, just tough to reef. So I want to remove the headstay, turn it 180 degrees, and attach it again. As far as I can tell the mast is held in place by the port and starboard shrouds. I will attach the main halyard to the bow pulpit to further ensure the mast won't move backwards. My questions are:

1. Is it safe to remove the headstay, turn it 180 degrees, and reattach it?
2. Is there anything I'm not thinking about?

Thank you!

Charles

 

[Stu Jackson]

Sure, but loop a line around the mast above the spreaders and tie it off to a bow cleat. Belts & suspender always work better.

 

[Charles Oday 240]

Much obliged Stu, thanks very much.