stepping (unstepping) mast

[Gary Britton]

I usually sail my 17' daysailer single handed. Does anyone have any ideas on stepping and unstepping the mast (single handed) other than just lifting and doing a balanceing act to get the mast in place. Is ther any kind of attachment that can be placed on the boat to enable one to help make the job easier? My main fear is loosing balance (or a good puff of wind) and the mast will come down on something or someone near by. Any ideas?Gary

 

[Justin - O'day Owners' Web]

DS mast

I used to step the mast on my daysailer by attaching the aft tabernackle pin to the mast and mast step. Then, using that as a hinge I would raise the mast with the forestay. The shrouds were already attached and would catch the mast from falling forward.Of course, this only works with a deck stepped rig. Is yours one of the keel stepped boats?Justin - O'day Owners' Web

 

[Gary Britton]

stepping mast

Justin:No my daysailer is not a keel stepped boat. It is a center board. There is nothing but a hole on top of the cuddy to place the mast. No hinges or anything. That is probably a problem to deal with. Any other ideas?Thanks for your replyGary