Dropping the mast

2nd generation · Post by **2nd generation** » Tue Jul 21, 2009 12:14 pm

Can the mast on a C22 be lowered using the same gin pole method that is used for raising it?

parared · Post by **parared** » Tue Jul 21, 2009 1:10 pm

I did, easy as pie. Just need to really watch the tension on the sides, 'cause rather than tightening as you lift ( as the shrouds come into play ) the mast get a little sloppy as it gets back to near horizontal. I just tugged on one side of the jig to steer the mast into the mount.

Gus · Post by **Gus** » Tue Jul 21, 2009 1:49 pm

yes, it can be done, but first rig a couple of baby stays, it'll make the job much easier, even if you have a helper.

mga1951 · Post by **mga1951** » Tue Jul 21, 2009 5:17 pm

Yes, That is the only way my wife and I raise and lower our mast.
One thing I have found is I started using tie down straps for the supports. Then I can loosen or tighten the supports as needed. This keeps the mast from swinging side to side.
Hope this makes sense to everyone.

CaptainScott · Post by **CaptainScott** » Tue Jul 21, 2009 6:27 pm

2nd generation · Post by **2nd generation** » Wed Jul 22, 2009 4:46 am

Jeffery,

Do you use the tie down straps from the bridle to the mast and from the bridle to the gin pole? That sounds easier then then a line from one to the other thru the bridle. Or does the line need to slid in the bridle as the mast raises and lowers?

I finally got my boat in the water yesterday but forgot to put the wind indicator on. So I need to drop the mast with the boat in the slip. I raised the mast using the old two on the boat and one on the ground with a long line and hoisting.

My boys are finally done with baseball so we can start sailing. The good thing about waiting is I got a slip that rents for $2,400 a season for $630! That includes use of the pool and bathhouse. The sailing season here at the south end of Lake Michigan usually lasts into October so I think I got a good deal.

skyking · Post by **skyking** » Thu Jul 23, 2009 12:56 pm

Mike,I like the red sail...Where did you find it & what size is it?

mga1951 · Post by **mga1951** » Thu Jul 23, 2009 6:01 pm

Hi Mike,
I hook 1 strap on to the bridle and the other strap to the round part of the first tie down hook. Then back to your mast and gin pole.
I didn't think about having them slide. That might work too! Then just use 1 strap looped thru.
We always raise and lower the mast w/ 2 people. It will work on the trailer and just as well tied to the dock.
Just make sure there is no wake coming when the mast is half way up.
That might be a little scary!!

Another thing. If you ever need a pin, I found a deep well socket works great. can't remember what size though??

Banshi · Post by **Banshi** » Fri Jul 24, 2009 5:54 am

Note the strategically placed red bungee cords, I use these to take up the slack on the way down and up since I almost always step my mast alone.

2nd generation · Post by **2nd generation** » Fri Jul 24, 2009 1:57 pm

Tim,

The sail is what used to be called a drifter. My dad ordered it from Hood sails back in the late 70's for his Chrysler C22. When he moved up in boats he kept the sail. When I bought my C22 he remembered he had it. The sail bag was covered in dust but the sail inside was like new.

skyking · Post by **skyking** » Fri Jul 24, 2009 5:15 pm

Hey mike, it looks great, I saw a purple genoa that was very large and it was the prettiest sail on the lake tonight...we just got home from an evening on the lake

My wife was a little skiddish when we almost put the rail in the water though..

Shell get used to it..Ill make a sailor out of her yet