Solo Stepping the Mastby By Gary WilcoxI have always used the jib halyard as the "temporary forestay" when stepping the mast solo: The only thing needed is a line with a bowline on each end. Attach one end to the bridle chainplate. Attach the other end to the jib halyard. Make the line just long enough to do this with the mast pin in. Cleat the jib halyard on the mast jib cleat. Route trap shock cords forward so that they route over the front corner castings (this helps stabilize the mast and guarantees that they do not get caught on anything). Flop the shouds inside of the trap lines (they won't catch on the rear corner castings). Raise the mast. Reach down with one hand and tighten the jib halyard while holding the mast with one hand (you should be somewhat down wind and hill to make this easier). Now, you can easily finish the job. Back to Tech Tips |