Use the Main Sheet
Les: The mast base has holes for two long clevis pins, install the rear one through the mast and deck plate to form a hinge for raising the mast. I use the main sheet (block and tackle) connected between the jib halyard and the bow with the pull from the bow. This gives you a 4:1 ratio to lift the mast and lets you pull parallel to the deck. You can lift it totally by hand (I did a lot of times before I smartened up) but the block and tackle makes it much easer. The trick is not to let the mast shift sideways, or stand on the boat's pop top. It could be all right to stand on the pop top but it just doesn't look that strong to me. All the mast support lines (upper and lower shrouds and the backstay) except the bow line (jib stay) should be connected before you lift the mast. All this is easer with the boat still on the trailer, wave action can make holding it centered while rasing interesting. I've ben sailing my 20 for 14 years so have made most of the mistakes. Feel free to write if you think I can be of help. Phil Teter poteter@webzone.net
