Dave, your input is clarifying things for me; thanks! I will probably end up with a topping lift, but I am probably not pushing for it this season. It doesn't seem too hard to deal with as is for now. I'll concentrate on making sure I am able to reef the sail first. GerrySV Minikin M17-023 On Monday, June 24, 2019, 09:04:29 PM EDT, Dave Scobie <scoobscobie@gmail.com> wrote: Garry. Your boom is missing hardware for an outhaul and the second reef. The hardware present is for the first reef (though it is on the 'incorrect' side - reefing control should be on the starboard side of the mast - usually). To start just run a line from the main's tack to the strapeye at the end of the boom - your main is bolt rope so adjustment is minimal. A topping lift involves many options and ways to rig. If you wish to have one let me know. A line attached to the backstay diamond and to the strapeye at the aft end of the boom (the same one you are using to adjust/attach the main's clew) will hold it up once the sail is down (be sure to disconnect BEFORE raising sail!!). A snap shackle attached to a short length of line works great. :: Dave Scobie :: M6'8" #650 :: SV SWALLOW - sv-swallow.com :: former owner M17 #375 SWEET PEA - m17-375.com :: former owner M15 #288 SCRED - www.freewebs.com/m15-named-scred/ On Mon, Jun 24, 2019, 5:49 PM Gerry Lempicki via montgomery_boats <montgomery_boats@mailman.xmission.com> wrote: Now for a couple questions regarding boom hardware. I'll attach a few photos. When I got the boat, there was this short line tied at the rear of the boom. I've been using it to support the boom when the sail is not up (by tying it to the ring at the split in the backstay). Is this same line used to tension the sail foot by pulling it back? Or maybe some of the hardware on the boom is used. I'll attach as few photos of the boom showing both sides. Can anyone tell me what the hardware is for? Thanks very much for any input! -Gerry