by Zinger88 » Mon Jun 18, 2018 2:25 pm
I had that exact boom crutch which came with the boat (DSII). I've since added a topping lift which eliminates having to fiddle with the crutch all the time (i.e. setup, storage, etc). Basically the crutch works by putting the base of each leg in the small groove located between the seat top and the cockpit side of the transom wall. You then place the boom on top of the "X" to support it. Once you've got everything in place you then have to cinch down on the main sheet to hold it all together. The biggest pain in the rear with using the crutch is when you forget about the fact it's holding the boom up prior to raising the mainsail and inadvertently release the main sheet which causes the whole setup to come crashing down. Topping lift eliminates the boom crutch and that whole cumbersome setup.
However...in your situation I could see where the boom crutch would be useful in the case of supporting a boom tent and keeping it from moving side-to-side while moored. Again...the crutch would need to be held in place by snugging down on the main sheet to keep it in place.
Jim H
'76 Daysailer II, Sail #7920, Windsong
Burton, TX
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