Vang connection to mast

[ScottS]

Hi all,
I've been lurking here for a while, but now I need some advice concerning the First 285 built in 1991 that I bought last season. I have a question concerning one of the many "little" things I've attempted to fix.

There is a small plate attached to the mast which holds the ring used to connect to the boom vang. The plate was bent outward probably due to overtensioning. I removed the plate, put it in a vise, and straightened it out. However, when I started to replace the plate it seems that there is nothing for the 2 screws to tighten into inside the mast. I guess there was a nut inside which must have dropped when I removed the plate. Does this sound right? If so, does anyone have a suggestion as to how I can re-attach the plate short of lowering the mast?

I was thinking one possibility is to use a slightly larger self tapping screw, but I would rather go a less destructive route if possible.
Thanks in advance.
Scott

 

[Jackdaw]

Scott,

On the MAST, right?? Typically on the 285 the boom vang attaches via a SS loop at the mast base. But it also can attach via a bracket that is screwed on via 6 (not 2) screws into the mast. See here. You can call US spars and they will sort you out.

http://www.usspars.com/boat-information/?vendor=Beneteau&model=First+285#section-display

 

[Ron20324]

Or, use a boom bail that is bolted throught the mast. You can attach other things to the boom bail as needed.

 

[ScottS]

Jackdaw,
Yes, the vang is (was) attached to to a small loop held to the mast by a vertical plate screwed into the track with 2 screws, one at the top and bottom.

Thanks for the link, its amazing what I can't find via Google sometimes. I checked the US Spars site and even though that is the link to my boat, I can't see the vang attachment. Strange, it doesn't look like something aftermarket, but you never know. I guess I can look into adding an SS loop or possibly a boom bail as Ron suggests.

Thanks for the help.
Scott