how to step a mast

I really like the simplicity of raising the mast without a gin pole. First, your mast is longer and heavier than a C-22 so I would always use the boom as a gin pole. NC 145: 67-81. When considering what glue to use for stepping the masts - I recommend using a two-part epoxy for gluing the mast to the deck. Put a wingnut on the end of the through bolt for easy removal and you’ve got a pivoting mast. There is a tiny bit of wear after 36 years but not enough to matter. Use it to build your own and save some money for something else. The basic theory of a gin pole is to lift a heavy object below one end while it remains stationary at the other end. All content provided on The $tingy Sailor blog is for informational purposes only. He also suggested using a beefier thickness if choosing aluminum just like your suggestion. They really just help to hold the boom vertical while you’re setting the system up until you begin to raise the mast. I don’t have the lower stays, nor do I have any of the attachment point on the mast that I can see. 1984. They connect to the sides of the boom with clips through the eye straps where my boom topping lift and jiffy reefing lines attach. I could not really see a clear picture of it in your videos. Stay tuned here for a separate post on the quick releases and maintaining mast tune that’s coming soon! I asked at the office of the marina I've got my slip at, and was told it would be 200$ to step the mast, and the per day rate equals 900$/month to leave the mast up on shore:eek: Both prices are plus tax of course. And because the pintles are welded in place instead of adjustable, they can’t accidentally loosen and drop the mast. The hinge has great strength. One side of the bracket is bolted through the mast step and the cabin top in front of the mast. All I can find is telescoping 1-3/4 & 1″ tubing. If you’re not able to do it by yourself, you might need a helper for at least that part of the setup. To attach the pulley, you can use the U-hook. 3. Any thoughts on how I could achieve that effect? If you’re lucky, it’s in your DNA and it comes easily to you. If the boat is keel stepped, undo the mast boot at the deck ring and remove any mast chocks(wedges), cross bolts, pins or anything else that might be holding the mast down, i.e. That’s kind of hard to visualize, so here’s a short video that takes you on a tour of the setup. The boat is held to the trailer using a stern ratchet strap and a turnbuckle on the bow, and the winch cable attached. Both are fast and mostly use the boat’s own rigging and very little extra gear. The channel should be just wide enough for the mast to sit into and the height a couple of inches. You’ve devised a very clever approach- I’ve never remounted my boom so will need how I can attach it to the fore ring on the step plate. I added a close-up picture of the hinge bracket about midway through the post. It’s free and you’ll join the hundreds of other stingy sailors that receive exclusive info, news, and offers like this one. Can’t wait to try this! Just some scraps I had on hand; lightweight, strong, and they don’t look too ghetto. This follows closely the Catalina 22 Owner’s Manual and General Handbook recommendation. Seat yourself in the included bosun’s chair and clip its attached ascender onto the halyard. Th mast pin slides back into the slot then down. I shared the 2017 DIY competition on Small Craft Advisor Magazine’s Facebook page and I noticed the 10 most popular projects link…most of which are on my to-do list! I painted and assembled it myself. Once the mast is part way up, NEVER WALK BENEATH THE MAST. Using a fine drill, drill a centre hole in the middle of the bottom of the mast. The pin is tethered to the boom with a stainless steel lanyard so it can’t get lost and it’s always near at hand. cross bolt. I use this method when it’s windy, when I’m setting up in a unlevel area, or on the water when its choppy. I must warn you though, this is a long post, even for me. Required fields are marked *. As it turns out, it’s really pretty easy to do. By the end of this post, you’ll know everything about how I step the mast on Summer Dance single-handed in minutes, even on the water. How do you step the mast on your trailerable sailboat, with a gin pole? I added a cleat on the side of the mast about 2 feet up from the base to help. Hi, I like your idea of the mast raising system without a gin pole. I have followed your web site for a while…and always turned out good. I haven’t yet devoted a blog post to it but it was pretty easy to make. The other side the bracket points upward and has a 1/4″ hole through it to act as a hinge for the gooseneck (stationary lower) end of the boom. This is in north Idaho, mind you, which is relatively remote compared to the Florida coast or southern California. I’ll give you an overview of each aspect in the text below but to really get it, you should watch the videos. I have the same quick release. Aha moments are great! The system I use relies on a small right angle bracket. to unstep/step your mast at Cracker Boy Boat Works. It was messy, but in the end there is no way water is getting through. The five fixed versions carry twin liabilities. Send us a good picture of the final product and I’ll add it at the end of the post as an example! What’s the most compact, portable piece of gear on a sailboat that creates mechanical advantage? Carlson, Deborah N. 2007. Is there already a long, stiff, portable, stick onboard? the hole where I would put the lock pin when the crutch is raised. Mast Steps, or Mast Feet, are used on Deck or Keel to secure the base of the Mast. In reality, the bow stays stationary and the entire gin pole system including its base (the mast) are raised towards the bow. Place the E-Z STEP on top of the mast as shown in Figure 1, with lifting ring up and lifting strap with snap on the bottom side. What you decide to install comes down to personal preference. The other person pulls on the forestay. Mast Mate (mastmate.com, from $280): Made from tough 2in-wide nylon webbing, the Mast Mate is about as simple as a mast climbing device could be. I pulled two through hull Airmar transducers out to check them and found only thin layer of algae on them – tells me the lake water has been very clean. Some Deck Steps incorporate a means of attaching Turning Blocks for Halyards and other Control lines. Look around for something hanging up. One crew member pulls on the forestay while another pushes on the mast. It was a cold and very windy day on 10/17/2121. Then the upper shrouds begin to tighten and they hold it centered the rest of the way up. Install the pulley in a way so that it stays in the same direction where the aluminum tube falls and remains face-to-face with the winch. The distance isn’t critical but depending on how tight the fit is between the inner and the outer tube, the hole might work better even farther up the inner tube. We step the mast with a single pin in an "L" shaped slot. Insert the mast-hinge lock pin. Underneath the boot there was basically just a huge gap between the mast and the deck with several rubber spacers poked into the hole. I’m sorry to hear you’re having trouble. Place the E-Z STEP on top of the mast as shown in Figure 1, with lifting ring up and lifting strap with snap on the bottom side. The most obvious difference between the two from a livability standpoint is the presence or absence of a mast inside the cabin. Thanks for the great video.. Jim Mathews. How to Step a Mast Build the mast either track up or track down depending on whether the crane will be set up forward of where the mast sits or aft of where the mast sits (bow-in or stern-to) Hang all standing rigging. Let’s see–sailboat design is all about capturing, multiplying, and redirecting forces for mechanical advantage: the hull, keel, rudder, mast, sails, rigging, almost everything. 2. But what if you don’t normally have a second able crew member? The stays provide all the support needed. [ Attach the two shrouds ] to the chainplates on the sidedecks. After I rig the boom like shown above, the hard part over. Pass the end of the stabilizing straps under the hulls and connect the D-ring together with the same Appreciate your reply Stingy. What are all gin poles in their most basic form? If the existing mast step casting is in good condition and with enough inherent strength to do the job, it can be attached to the top plate by machine screws, either with nuts or tapped into the step casting. To elevate the mast, you need to fasten the winch and the pulley to the aluminum post. I’ll also explain some topics that lead up to and follow mast stepping, like how I: When I started trailering Summer Dance years ago, I researched a lot about mast stepping. I was only introduced to sailing two years ago when I bought a Sunfish. Mast stepping is the process of raising the mast of a boat. Fasten the webbing at bottom of the E-Z STEP pole around the mast near the base using the buckle. But I added your email address to the newsletter recipient list back on May 11. Since I use my mainsheet tackle, no, but if you want to use a separate tackle, that would be a good idea. If you don’t have the resources to make one yourself, maybe you can find a friend or a metal fabricator to help. You can see the whole main sheet in the video in Quit Spending Setup Time on Turnbuckles. Mast Steps. Attatch the shrouds and aft stay. Also, have you ever noticed the boom baby stays pulling too much on the stantions? Have you experienced any water penetration through this hole? The second longest run attaches to the top of the gin-pole, snapped to an eyebolt. Depending on how close the fit is and how much overlap, when you’re rolling the mast back to set it in the step, there can be considerable strain on that “joint.” A thin wall or soft aluminum might deform so make it beefy there. Use Your Boat Hook to Sail Faster Downwind, 15 Perished in US Sailing Tragedies in 2018. If the mast starts to lean to one side a lot, or it gets suddenly hard to crank, STOP. Keep my mast in tune without having to loosen and re-tighten the shroud turnbuckles to step the mast. I see that the boom is removed of course in your video. I just started squishing wax into every nook and cranny. If you’re new to mast stepping, you don’t like your current method, or you just want to simplify or speed up the process, this is for you. your own Pins on Pinterest To hold the boom vertical during raising, I use two pieces of pre-tied accessory cord. You’ll need the leverage for the extra weight, especially with the addition of the furler. Just what I have been looking for to give me some information to guide me in raising and lowering the mast for maintenance on my 26 foot Grampian without the expensive use of a crane this spring. The ceremony involves placing or welding one or more coins into the mast step[clarification needed] of a ship, and is seen as an important ceremonial occasion in a ship's construction which is thought to bring good luck. … The person supporting the mast guides it into the mast gate. deck tie downs or Spartite . The last newsletter went out on May 21 titled What’s Your Favorite DIY Project? Do you use your mainsheet tackle when lowering? The mast steps come in three basic flavors-fixed, folding and one demountable. Then I tie it all down in a few minutes like shown in the first video. You could use a stronger tackle (try 4:1) if you need the additional lifting power. Second and more importantly, you’d need to lift the furler as well as the mast somehow. These terms and conditions are subject to change at any time with or without notice. One needs to attach a mast bail with the MacGregor 26 solo mast stepping system. What would you think about using aluminum to build it instead of steel? Your email address will not be published. The mini stays have no place to attach to. Mariner’s Mirror 51:205-10. Step 2. Hence, nothing for the mast to pivot on. It’s something of a prerequisite to be a stingy sailor. All I need to put away are the two accessory cords. Either way, it takes quite a bit of strength to get the mast up that first few feet since you’re not pulling directly vertically on the masthead. Mast stepping is the process of raising the mast of a boat. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. I have tried raising the mast as you show in the video. 4. The mast step is nearly in-line with the tops of the stanchions, so the cords rotate around the same pivot point as the mast and the boom. Could you send a pic of quick release on forward shrouds and forstay and the pin you spoke of in vid. Find a piece of heavy gauge aluminum channel that you can cut into a shape similar to the C-22 tabernacle shown in the picture above. The rest of the process would work the same. Your site is awesome and very helpful! I think aluminum would work great so long as the wall thickness of the tubes is adequate. Here’s what it looks like when it’s done on the water. My mast step has welded loops fore and aft. http://www.catalinadirect.com/index.cfm/product/345_18/mast-step-c-22-cp-22brcp-18-wwelded-vang-loop.cfm, https://www.tropicalboating.com/2010/04/the-perfect-solo-mast-raising-system-for-small-sailboats, Add a Solar-Powered Flood Light in Your Cockpit. Subscribe now and you'll receive notifications of new posts by email so you won't miss a one. One theory is that, due to the dangers of early sea travel, the coins were placed under the mast so the crew would be able to cross to the afterlife if the ship were sunk. The mast step has no pin to lock to the mast foot, it just falls into place between two pins that limit its longitudinal travel. Folding steps (top) reduce windage and are less likely to snag lines when folded. Except for one very small step, they create considerable wind resistance and theres little you do about that. There will be a lot of pressure in this area when you are beginning to raise the mast. You can read all about it in Add a Solar-Powered Flood Light in Your Cockpit. A ladder, piece of string, and a sharp eye are all you need. I’m guessing you are using a basic vang ? Brilliant repurpose of mainsheet. You will also receive occasional newsletters with exclusive info and deals only for followers and the password to the Downloads page. It saves several minutes and is nearly as easy to do. Marsden, P. 1965. Prepare the mast step and/or the deck ring: If the boat is deck or keel stepped make sure there is nothing at the step that might keep the mast from lifting up, i.e. I’ve struggled with this procedure for years, just man-handling it up there. I am curious about what the black,plastic/rubber item is that looks like it’s attached to the stern rail by the mast crutch @ 2:45 of the first video Please respond because my curiosity is killing me because I don’t get it. Thanks for the blog. That’s right, Jim. Thanks! My C-25 teak companionway/hatchboards need replacement after 20 years, probably all standing rigging needs replacement even though it all looks fine at deck level (in the Lake continuously since ‘08), etc., etc. Step 6 - Mainsheet. With the trailer winch? [3] Another theory for this practice is that the insertion of coins in buildings and ships may have functioned as a form of sacrifice thanking the gods for a successful construction, or a request for divine protection in the future. I’ve since revised the drawing to show the hole 2″ up from the bottom of the inner tube. It's usually a long step, and most people can't do it. With your fingers crossed? I’ll probably shoot out the next one at the end of the month. I sealed the plate and hole perimeters with butyl tape, so no problems. I’m making the mast crutch and downloaded the drawing. I’m reluctant to drill into the mast though. Some pretty interesting ideas here, I’m borrowing some, especially related to the sails… I hope you’ve picked up some tips from this post that you can use to optimize your mast stepping system and spend more time on the water. I use a combination of DIY mast supports, motorcycle straps, and inexpensive ball cords to secure the rig. Thanks! This is my first cruiser (purchased in July) and I’ve much to learn from your blog. This page was last edited on 29 September 2019, at 17:26. I also see the stress on the mast crutch essentially dictates one use the transom gudgeons for support. What if you or your crew have a physical impairment that prevents them from performing one of the tasks? Excellent blog and report. Learn how your comment data is processed. The previous video mentions my DIY mast stepper, also called a Mastup by a popular online Catalina parts retailer. In operation, this ring must be centered directly across from the mast step pivot bolt. Our 76 does not. Being an armchair engineer qualifies too. You mention the newsletter. Aluminum would be even better if you can get it welded. A smaller sailboat could indeed be trickier to step the mast single-handed since it has less rigging to aid the process. Then drill a hole through the base of the mast to accept the through bolt. If you believe in the rule that you should have a backup for every critical part and system, then you also need a backup mast stepping plan even if you normally step the mast with the factory recommended method. The person supporting the mast guides it into the mast … Can we raise and lower the mast single-handed with the main sheet and the boom? With the mast erect, attach the forestay and forward lower shrouds. Deck Stepped. That’s an excellent question, Jim, since it wasn’t shown on the drawing. That’s a lot of info. Enter your email address to follow this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Getting aloft is now very easy. I suggest you consider mounting a tang like the Garhauer BT-1 to the bottom of the mast instead. The second longest run attaches to the … High-tech laser devices are not required to get your mast and keel in alignment. Step the mast, pull in the slack on the main halyard and cleat if off to the mast cleat, then you can safely attach the forstay. " I assume it will. Mast steps are available in either fixed or folding designs. I don’t want to miss any more. After purchasing my Oday 25 in Madison Wisconsin; I needed to transport it to Michigan City, Indiana. Your email address will not be published. There are four standard lengths, from 27ft to 50ft. If all is clear, continue to raise the mast until it rests on the mast step … Offset to one side a little, you should still be able to use your rudder to steer. The gudgeons can easily handle the weight so long as the pintles on the crutch are sturdy. Of course this screws with any staying arrangements you might have, so maybe some tracks for the stays too. They charge $250.00 an hour to unstep/step Masts and it usually takes a half an hour mininum. Since the loop is perpendicular to the line of the mast/boom rotation, it won’t work well using only off the shelf parts. I’m also looking at the idea from the clever MacGregor 26 mast raising pole that uses a winch on the pole with baby stays with a special one to automatically keep the lowered furler up off the deck. Hmmm, this asks more questions for than answers. Following is a close-up video of just the mast stepper. Thank you Mark. I am told that the L bracket can be passed through the deck attached to the mast. I have the mast step which I can raise for a better angle…but it’s not happening. Join the mast now to the mast foot. 3. $tingy. Dear sir My name is Mark Monteverdi. The longest of the four lines will go to a point as high as you can reach on the mast (secured to a padeye using a stainless snap). Or does yours have some reinforcement? I don’t want to spend an hour lowering the mast and tying the rig down. Factory-built gin poles, braces, guy wires, and mast-ups, DIY wooden gin poles with winches, bridles, and brace poles, Blocks attached to the pulpit to reuse the trailer winch cable, Electric winches on the trailer or in the tow vehicle, Jumbo bungee cord connected to the forestay, Assorted Rube Goldberg variations on all the above, A peg on one end of the pole that fits in a hole in the mast (the factory system for 2nd generation C-22s), A saddle on the end of the gin pole that fits around and is strapped to the mast (most DIY systems). First of all, thanks for all your tips, tricks, and videos. I might have to resort to one as I get older and am not able to do everything I once could. You have a lot of good projects on here. Use the jib halyard with its working end securely tied off instead of the forestay to connect the masthead to the boom/gin pole. that is an ingenious way to raise a mast,nice work ! Hi Step 1. I use the standard C-22 main sheet tackle which has a 3:1 mechanical advantage. That’s why I always have at least one hand on the mast to keep it centered during the lower half of the lift. It may be a ceremonial occasion on a new boat, a necessary step, as in stepping the mast of a small sailing dinghy or gig, or simply routine, as following seasonal maintenance on a sailboat. Fasten the webbing at bottom of the E-Z STEP pole around the mast near the base using the buckle.

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