Topping Lift

[Glenn]

I am already tired of dealing with the boom crutch after less than 6 months ownership of my 89 DS3. Anyone ever added a topping lift? I can't think of any reason against doing it. Let me know if you can think of any. If you have installed one what materials did you use? Since I trailer sail it needs to be easily removed from the boom end. I wonder if it needs to be adjustable. It sure would make single handling much easier. There might even be lazy jacks in it's future. Probably not.

Glenn
Medford, NJ
SV Deja Vu

[algonquin]

I would be concerned about the amount of additional windage/weight that would result from lazy jack gear hung high on a light DS type boat. The lazy jack setup is really for a heavier hull design.

A topping lift can be simple, light, and easy on the wallet. On my DS1 I secured a light 1/8 inch line at the mast head and run it down to the aft end of the boom where it runs through a small block then forward along the boom to a simple cleat. It can be easily adjusted from the tiller position. Pull the line and the boom easily raises then secure the line to the cleat. Put a little slack in the line while under sail. Brad