[Public-List] Tow line around mast

[mainstay at csolve.net]

Good afternoon - Mike & company

I think that on principal towing by a deck stepped mast is not such a  
good idea.  Nothing about the step is designed to take anything but a  
direct compression load.  It is not particularly strong in shear with  
its four bolts; certainly no stronger than a well mounted deck cleat.   
I think that adds up to no advantage over using one or two cleats.  I  
have heard of a boat with a deck stepped mast having its rig pulled  
down by this practice.  Since there is no benefit, its better not to  
take the risk.

Sorry if I sound a little crabby - I am stewing in the airport now in  
Providence RI waiting for a flight home.  My connection to New York  
was delayed which led to the risk of missing the last flight to  
Toronto...so I took a much later flight, which is now also delayed....

Gord #426 Surprise


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