Hello
I would like to simplify the rigging on my Mac. I have attached photos showing existing set up which has some kind of addition at the base of the mast along with added pulleys. The sail up and down is by one rope which is a loop. What I would like to do is dispose of all the gubbins around the base of the mast and run 2 ropes through pulleys back to the cockpit, is there any reason I cannot do this?
Appreciate any advise on this
First time I have tried this so apologies if none of it makes sense or uploads properley
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I can only see one photo, a close up of a Harken swivel block.
I take it your aim is to run the halyard back to the cockpit.
From your description it seems you currently have a continuous halyard loop, i.e. down haul as well as up.
This is unconventional but does have the advantage of preventing losing the end of the halyard up the mast.
The problem you have with an M is avoiding interfering with the rotating mast.
This has been discussed on here before and others (M owners) can be more help than I.
If you can have another go at posting your photos so we can see what your dealing with.
Dave.
Dave Newton Sailbadthesinner
Hi Simon
I set up a single-rope system similar to what you describe several years ago, and I find it by far the best solution for the main halyard. Not only do you get a downhaul, but you don't have to deal with a big pile of rope when the sail is hoisted.
I use a "pivoting exit block" at the mast base, similar to what your picture shows. Does that block have an integral cam-cleat? If so, that's exactly how mine works. It's also a great solution for an M, as it doesn't impede the mast rotation in any way. As Dave commented, a photo showing a wider angle would help.
You say you'd like to bring "ropes through pulleys back to the cockpit", that's what mine does, the single rope comes from the mast to the cockpit then back to the mast. Do you have to operate your halyard at the mast? Maybe just using a longer rope it all that's required.
That's just some ideas, again, some more comprehensive photos would make it easier to offer better advice.
Rick Jones (Treasurer), former 26X & 19 owner, Isle of Wight
Good Afternoon
Thank you for the comments, I will try and upload some better photos
regards
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Simon has emailed me some more photos - thanks (you sent them to the editor, which isn't me, but John's forwarded them on!).
To make them easier to view I've uploaded them to a gallery click here.
I'm a bit confused, as there seem to be two different configurations at the mast base - are they of two different boats?
The ones showing the custom piece of metal around the mast base are I assume what you suggest you'd like to remove. I have to say, that arrangement with Harken pivoting exit blocks is in my view one of the best ways to configure the main halyard, especially on an M. I've used that same system, but screwed the blocks directly to the mast. I presume whoever set that up didn't want to drill the mast, but it comes to the same thing.
That system allows the mast to rotate freely, any other arrangement such as in the other photos will seriously impede rotation.
Why do you particularly want to change it?
Rick Jones (Treasurer), former 26X & 19 owner, Isle of Wight
Yes I agree with Rick. It looks on the second lot of photos that you have removed the custom plate to which the harken swivel block was attached.
I believe I was the first in UK to have this system on a Mac. See my photos on the mods section with reference to my Dropbox. I didnt have the downhaul arrangement when photos taken. Your system is simpler than mine in that you don' have a fixed block for your Uphall. I have heard that the block shackled to forward spare hole still allows mast to rotate so may be ok taken back to clutch. The continuous line returns loosely to a block situated near base of mast .You maybe had it fixed to a plate but actually can be just a large block shocked to the same place as the kicker..that' what I now have. If you don' want continuous line then ok but I have found it a good way to get sail quikly down from the cockpit.
You will see I have same cleated pulley system for 3 reefing lines !
Roly Simpson
Aranah. 26M
Gentlemen
Thank you all for your very helpful comments. I know I have not made it easy with my clueless use of the Forum pages!!
I think I will leave well along as this seems to be what you are suggesting in the main. The photos showing the tackle moved from the base of the mast is another boat moored further along for comparison but I didn't make that clear, too much rushing in between work e mails!!
I too have been chewing over the issue of rigging the main in the cockpit v mast.
Seems to be down to one's attitude to risk plus one's agility.
A bit of a moot point at the moment for me as my main doesn't have slugs.
I think it's the original 2009 vintage so, if I keep the boat next year I may trade up to a flat top 3 reef jobby and sort out a simple process for reefing from the cockpit.
At least try it out since the plan next year would be the Channel Isles.
MacGregor 26M 2009 - Sky's the Limit - Suzuki DF50