Stanchion Removal or not

[Jake Moor]

I have a 1981 C22 with the standard lifeline setup and have been thinking about removing the side stanchions and lines to gain some foot space on the deck as I go forward and aft. What do you think? I don't have any small children and am pretty sure the lifelines as low as they are wouldn't stop anything from going over the side. I would keep the pulpit and the rear stanchions for the moment. Am I adversely effecting the value of the boat? I may trade up in years in a couple of seasons. Thanks! We are just about ready for spring sailing here in the midwest. Just don't fall in the water! It's cold...

 

[David Williams]

Lifelines

I just removed mine, and it takes a little getting used to not having them, but I think that I like it better without them.One thing, I had to remove my stern pulpit, because the mainsheet kept getting caught where the lifelines attached. My boat feels naked without the pulpit.It is much easier to tack without the lifelines/stanchions. The jib crosses much easier.David

 

[ken]

lifelines

Jake...........Lifelines on a C22 are a joke. Removing them to gain footspace is an excellent idea.

 

[Randy Kolb]

Keep 'em

I don't see how you gain much "foot space" by removing the stanchions and life lines. Personally, I like the life lines on our C22 and the majority of C22s on our lake have the life lines installed. I do think you would reduce the re-sale value of your boat by removing them. Plus, the life lines are a great place to hang the fenders!

 

[Campy]

Life Lines

Life Lines on a C-22 are at your knees and would serve to trip you more than break your fall. Gain the foot space and remove them. Resale value on a Catalina 22 would be nominal with or without them.The only thing I wish I had on my 1973 C-22 #2226 is the aft pulpit for a backrest and BBQ holder. But I'm living large without it.Campy

 

[Jake Moor]

thanks

I appreciate the comments regarding the removal or not of sidelines. I'll take a careful look at the boat next time I see it to determine the difficulty level of removal and plugging of subsequent holes.Jake