Spinnaker crane installation

[Ed]

After a couple of attempts to install the new spinnaker cane on our C30TMBS, without a lift or pullout, we think we're ready for success. The design actually overlays the original crane and sets the spinnaker block forward to clear the furler.Initial attempts found that the forestay and furler placed too much weight on the crane pin to be certain of getting it re-installed once pulled. This is while hanging fom the rig on the main halyard. Our next attempt will disconnect the forestay from the bowsprit and have someone push up in order to unload it while installing the crane and new pin.A safety question remains:- We've set up 2 strong sheets as alternate guys tied from the bowsprit under the shrouds to the rear of the original crane. Let's say they both fail; will the mast fall? How solid is the C30 mast with someone on top and no forestay?

 

[Rick]

No problem

The C30 mast is stiff enough to support your weight with just the lowers, but go ahead and use additional halyards in lieu of forstay if it give you peace of mind. You wont get much done if all you can think about is falling.When I did mine I found that it was easier to completely drop the furler (with forstay inside). Your jib halyards will have to be off of the sheaves so that you can pull their center pin. I stuck a screwdriver under each sheave to keep it from dropping and as a lever to manuever it for re-aligning its hole.Also, I found it easiest to mount the VHF antenna bracket to the crane while on the ground. Then you only have to mount the antenna to the bracket when you get up there.