Bow fitting and standing rigging questions.

[mutinbob]

I have a 1979 Mutineer that I purchased about a year ago. I really enjoy it and have a few questions.
1. The bow eye bolt is loose and can’t I figure out how to tighten it. Is there a procedure for tightening this fitting?
2. Also, there are three pop rivets on the fore deck by the bow. What do these rivets secure?
3. The forestay runs through the luff of the furling jib. Should I use an additional forestay for redundancy?
4. The jib has a few holes and rips. Where can I buy a replacement at a decent price?
Thanks for your help. I appreciate it, Bob
The mast stepping articles by Rick, Fred, Tom and Eric were very helpful. Thank you.

[Skipper Dan]

Defender or West marine has sail repair tape that will work if your sails are not too bad. You can also measure them and find used sails online. Precision sails can make you new ones.
I have a Mutineer but it is up in WI and I will not be there for another month. A picture is worth a thousand words. If the bow eye is the one that you winch the boat onto the trailer it should have two nuts on the inside to tighten. If the bow eye is not the correct one and just a loop it may not tighten. You need one that has a plate so it will hold against the hull.

Skipper Dan S/V Mi Amor

[mutinbob]

Thank you for your adivce Skipper Dan. I'll follow up on this stuff. I do have the two nut eye bolt and will try to get a photo poated, Bob

[Skipper Dan]

Here is one I found on Defender. They also make them with the top plate welded on, they look a bit nicer.

Skipper Dan S/V Mi Amor

[mutinbob]

Thanks for the fitting info Skipper Dan. I believe the only way to tighten these fittings is to drill for a waterproof inspection cover onto the forward bulkhead or the cubby hole stroage area and use a socket at the end of a long extension. Maybe there's antoher way, but I can't come up with it. Thanks again, Bob