GENERAL INFORMATION

TERMINOLOGY:

In the following instructions, we have tried to avoid the use of nautical terms wherever possible. If you are new to the sport, having to learn a new language while you are learning to rig and sail the boat can be grim. For those who are interested, there is a short glossary. If you are an experienced sailor, be patient with our use of non-nautical words, rather than the more technically correct sailing language.

JOBS THAT ONLY HAVE TO BE DONE ONCE:

Much of what you will read in the following instructions involves the initial setup and rigging of the boat, and will only have to be done once. For example, you will find detailed information on assembling the mast and connecting the mast support wires and lines to the mast. Once this is done, it will not have to be redone each time you sail. So don't be intimidated by the length and detail of these instructions.

TOOLS:

You will need two 7/16" end wrenches, two 9/16" end wrenches and a pair of pliers to do all of the assembly work. You can get by with the pliers and a small crescent wrench.

BOWLINE KNOTS:

It is essential to learn to tie a bowline knot. It is used all over the boat to tie stuff together. The bowline is shown in Photo 1. Pull the loops tight. It will not jiggle loose, and can be easily undone even after being pulled tight under really heavy loads.

Photo 1: Bowline knot

SECURING A LINE TO A CLEAT:

The proper way to secure a line to a cleat is shown in Photo 2. Make sure the last loop forms a half hitch (with the tail end of the line passing under the loop) in order for the line to stay secure.

Drawing 2: Securing a line to a cleat

RIGGING THE MAST

First, take a look at the photographs on the following pages to get a general idea of what the complete mast and rig will look like.

RIG BOX:

Open up the box of rigging that comes with the boat and do a complete inventory to make sure everything is there. A checklist, showing each item, is packed with the parts.

ATTACH SPREADER BRACKETS TO THE MAST SPLICE:

Using a 3/8 x 4" bolt and lock nut, attach the spreader brackets and lower side wires to the mast splice. Make sure there are 3 washers between the spreader bracket and the splice. (Photo 3) Tighten the nut tight but not so tight as to deform the splice. The straps that are attached to the U brackets should point about 10 degrees to the slotted side of the mast.

Photo 3: Spreader brackets and mast splice