Hi: You keep it loose while sailing. Mine just runs through a small block at the aft end of the boom to a cleat on the boom. I loosen it slightly then raise sail. I tighten it before lowering sail. Hope this helps. cheers- Shawn Boles Grey Mist (M17 #276 1978) -----Original Message----- From: montgomery_boats-bounces+shawn=ori.org@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:montgomery_boats-bounces+shawn=ori.org@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of david_hill@idg.com Sent: Monday, June 06, 2005 6:05 AM To: montgomery_boats@mailman.xmission.com Subject: M_Boats: Topping lift Advice please -- I want to put a topping lift on my M17. I have never used one before. Does one leave it attached at all times, even when under sail, or do you disconnect it after raising the sail? Thanks, David Hill M17 Grouper_______________________________________________ http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/montgomery_boats