Replacing a reef line that runs inside the boom on an Ericson 32
- Thread starter Thalassa
- Start date
Shawn Brooks
Member II
I just duct-tapped the two lines together end-to-end really well. You could also stitch them together with heavy thread. I didn't encounter anything tricky inside my boom that might snag or bind. I was surprised by the poor condition of the blocks in there though--maybe worth a look.
c.gustafson
Member II
I recommend sewing the lines together -- end-to-end -- and also wrapping with tape. You'll have a difficult problem if the lines become separated inside the boom. It's worth the extra time and effort to sew the lines together to make sure that you don't get separation inside the boom.
Here's a master thread on E32 reefing setups: https://ericsonyachts.org/ie/threads/e32-3-reefing-mysteries-master-thread.15826/
peaman
Sustaining Member
The mast end fitting of my Kenyon boom has a too-small hole which the reef line must pass through. It is a major pain to get the end through, even without tape. I whip all ends of all of my running rigging, and I usually include a "messenger loop" on each whipping for the purpose of reeving lines. I use 1/8" nylon cord for messengers, which I connect to the messenger loop with a bowline and no tape. Tape adds bulk and stiffness, which can lead to unnecessary jamming of lines at sheaves and tight passages.
A bit of revision might help. There are some reports in this thread:
ericsonyachts.org
Boom Refurbish
Which end of the boom gave you the best access to the internal bits? Jeff, From memory, you probably need to attack it from both ends. The outhaul and topping lift are "anchored" at the front of the boom but do their work at the back. Here's the dis-assembly drawing I made when pulling mine...