Stepping mast on Cat 27 using gin pole

[HillbillyWanderer]

So have spent lot of time researching a system to raise/lower mast on cat27. Most threads mention using the A frame system with 2x4 or 2x6. Others mention using gin pole, but make little mention of the methods to steady the mast to prevent it from swaying side to side. Currently have a gin pole I use with cat22 that works ok. Biggest prob is the swaying from side to side. Can handle it by myself but figure a 27 will be much different. Tried making a bridle attached to each side but really did not work that well. Advice appreciated pics or video be very much help.

 

[caguy]

On mine the mast hinges from the front, so I use the boom as my gin pole. I use bridles on the mast attached to stanchion bases and a clamped on the aft lower shroud. The bridle pivot ring is in-line with the mast hinge. I use sheets attached to boom end and run them through the fairleads that are pushe forward almost to the mast on the T-track toerails. I adjust the sheets with the winches as I raise or lower the mast.
I raise it by myself, takes to much effort to explain to others. There are few people I trust to help other than some of my more experienced sailing buddies.

 

[HillbillyWanderer]

Thanks caguy, we have spoke about this a little bit before. Biggest concern I have is the bridles working and holding properly. As stated made sum for my cat 22, worthless. Guess I need to work with them a bit more see if I can get them to work better. Was hoping for some kind of different system. Thinking of trying it on the cat22 see how it works then hopefully use the same on slightly bigger on the "in the future cat27". Have big plans but guess need to focus on the cat22 and go from there. Thanks again. Let you know how it works out.

 

[caguy]

Actually the mast stayed pretty centered and bridles didn't do much. The key was keeping the boom centered with the sheets. With the sheets I was able to control the mast and move it from side to side as it was raised. It all felt very in control.