Boat Projects: Running the Main Halyard to the Helm

Getting ready to install the blocks. 

Yet another project we tackled on RoundAbout was running the main halyard back to the helm. As it was, one of us would have to go forward to crank up (or drop) the sail, and when it is pouring rain, it isn't all that fun a job. We have an electric winch that would make raising (and lowering) the main sail so much easier! We'd also get to say out of the bad weather, so that was part of the motivation.

First, we ordered blocks for the main halyard (72mm size), a Spinlock clutch, and the plastic material for the shims, which will go under the blocks. Receiving these parts took all of about a month. Once we had all of the parts, install took about a day.

Shims cut and being prepared for installation.

Jared traced the blocks and cut out the shims. We then set to work placing the blocks. After we were happy with the placement, we completed the installation.

We installed one block on the mast, and two blocks on the roof leading up to the new clutch at the helm.

All done and it works great!

We finished just before evening and tested the system. It worked great!