Hi, I'm new to the forum and recently bought (adopted?) a Montgomery 17 (#302; Orli). I've been stepping and lowering the mast with a safety line to the forestay but would like to be able to do this with a gin pole. I made a gin pole out of a 2x4 and U bolts. I attach the gin pole to the base of the mast using a cutout and a ratcheting strap. I'm able to get that tight enough so it's stable. On the other end I attach the jib halyard to a U bolt on top of the pole and on the under side I attach the trailer winch strap to raise and lower the mast, using the gin pole. Now here's the problem - I made baby shrouds to try to stabilize the mast and preventing it from side movement. Unfortunately, my attempts to stabilize the mast raising system has been less than successful. Any suggestions on how to provide sufficient stability so I can use this system with confidence? Lenny #302, "Orli" Sent from my iPad