i prefer using a Boomkicker. no line flapping around. your #3 is a workable system and inexpensive. i set '#3' up using two strapeyes and one clamcleat CL203. attach one strapeye just below the top of the mast. i recommend the port side as you should raise/lower the main when on a starboard tack. this means the topping lift line will blow to leeward and less likely to hang up on the main as the sail is raised. at the end of the boom attach the second strapeye. tie a 3/16" line the strapeye at the masthead. run the 3/16" line through the clamcleat's mounting holes (drill them out so a 3/16" line will 'just' run through with some tension; the line should not slip through the mounting holes easily). the clamcleat 203s fairlead needs to be facing down (ie, the boom, not the top of the mast). run line through the strapeye at the end of the boom. run the line through the CL203's fairlead. adjust so the line is loose when the sail is up, and long enough to keep the boom from falling to far as the main is lowered. picture attached with the above details. #3 is the standard topping lift offerings on Sage 17's that are ordered without a Boomkicker. more info needed let me know. -- :: Dave Scobie :: former M15 owner - www.freewebs.com/m15-named-scred :: M17 #375 SWEET PEA - www.m17-375.webs.com On Wed, May 18, 2016 at 4:19 PM, John Schinnerer <john@eco-living.net> wrote:
Hi all,
I'm going to put a topping lift on Pajarita. I have various examples to go by I've seen on other boats, and, if anyone here has added a topping lift, my basic question is what's your experience of the simplest easiest to use approach.
The first two are just a matter of which hardware up top - in both cases it's the standard line up the mast and then down to end of boom:
1) cheek block on side of mast at top, or... 2) eye strap with hanging block on side of mast at top
Or, a different approach:
3) line fast at top of mast and adjust with cleat on boom.
Of 1 and 2, I imagine the cheek block is quieter and simpler but maybe there's advantages to the swivel/swing available with the block hung from eye strap?
Then, 3 seems overall simpler and can be put on/off and adjusted while in the cockpit. But also it adds another line and cleat on the boom, and I don't want to add too much complication there because of existing reefing & outhaul lines & cleats.
cheers, John S
