Topping lift and centerboard questions

[Dennis Gagnon]

HELP!!!I recently purchased an O'Day 15 but it needs some work. If anyone out there can answer my questions I will be forever in their debt.1) Does this model use a topping lift to support the boom, or is it supported just by the mainsail?2) If there should be a topping lift, where does it attach to the mast?3) If required, should it be wire or nylon line?4) What is the purpose of the 1" Dia. nylon pin in the centerboard and how is it held in place? (kept from falling out while sailing)I hope there is someone out there who can answer my questions so I can go sailing this summer. In the event of a glitch in the web site, my email is dgagnon@portone.com please respond.Thank you,Dennis

 

[Trevor - SailboatOwners.com]

Topping lift

Hi Dennis -I don't know what the intended configuration for your particular boat was, but it's really up to you whether you want to install a topping lift or not. I'd say it's not worth the trouble on that size boat. It also could depend on whether you intend to keep the rig up when not in use. I've sailed plenty larger boats that just use a small lanyard on the end of the boom that attaches to the backstay when lowering the sail. If you wanted to install a topping lift, I'd use small diameter rope or cable (thinner = less windage, and you don't need much strength, since it's only intended to hold the weight of the boom), attached to an eye ABOVE the main halyard sheave.As for the centerboard pin, I'm unfortunately not familiar with the setup, so can't offer personal observations there. Take a close look and try to determine it's purpose. If it's to hold the centerboard in place, make sure there's a pin holding it in so it doesn't fall out. If in doubt, improvise!Have fun out there!Trevor