Raising the boom
Related Topics: Moving traveler to coach roof | Dodgers and Biminis | Vang for an E32
Date: October 5, 1998
From: Paul Uhl endvr32@endeavourowners.com
The problem I foresee with adding a bimini on our 1981 E32 is that I stand 6'0" and the boom is slightly less. Therefore, a bimini which would have to be lower to clear the boom, would need to be as low as 5'6" to clear the boom. Quite low. Since our boat has a tendency towards slight weather helm (I can tune most of it out), I've been considering raising the boom by 6-9", purchasing a new main, and adding a rigid vang. Not only would I then get the clearance for a bimini, but better main control. Of course I would need to run the idea by a designer to make sure that it's feasible.
As far as others having moved the main sheet/traveler, I believe that Tim (timwana) has moved his from the bridge deck to a position forward and above the companion way. He's taking his boat from Ohio to SC and should be back in November.
Date: October 21, 1998
From: Tom Gilbert TGil95746@aol.com
On my E32, the previous owner mover the bridle on the boom aft 10-12 inches. This he did so the sheets would clear the cockpit 2nd compass mounted to the left of the cabin entrance way. By moving the main boom bridle aft, the sheets now clear the Dodger well enough even on a broad reach. Having done this, the new bimini can now be installed with the little flap for rainy motoring. Good luck...Tom.
Date: October 21, 1998
From: Paul Uhl endvr32@endeavourowners.com
Thanks Tom,
Did you happen to notice the height or clearance of the dodger/bimini. I stand at 6'0" and the boom is a few inches lower. By the time I put the dodger/bimini in I'll have 5'6" below it. Was thinking of raising the boom.
Date: October 21, 1998
From: Tom Gilbert TGil95746@aol.com
Hmmm. I can stand under the boom during a tack, but I don't remember if I'm leaning over !!! The boom during motoring is not an issue because the topping lift can be hoisted. Hmmm. I'll go measure on the 28th when I go out again...I'm 6'0" and will have to investigate. ....like a good sail, stay tuned...Tom
Date: December 2, 1998
From: Tom Gilbert TGil95746@aol.com
Yup..It would be low...I just bought a new main, so raising anything but capital is out. lol I'm replacing the reefing lines on the boom and the outhaul... they're shot. Any ideas on painting the boom ???? I've got all winter and a nice basement to shoot it in.....Thanks. Tom.
Date: December 2, 1998
From: Paul Uhl endvr32@endeavourowners.com
Tom,
I've been thinking about repainting our boom and mast. I'd suggest you get a book on the subject. I haven't done it but I know enough to practice my spraying technique and make sure that there isn't any dust in the air. Good ventilation and a respirator would also be on the list.
Date: June 27, 2000
From: Paul Uhl endvr32@endeavourowners.com
I'm considering adding a Garhauer rigid vang as well as a dodger to my 1982 E32. My coach roof-to-boom clearance is 26.25" and I fear that it's not near enough to accommodate one. Also standing at 6'0" tall, I have to duck slightly so as not to get whacked by the boom in the cockpit so
I've decided to raise the boom to atleast clear my head and the dodger, probably about 4-6". However I was wondering if anyone has or had added a rigid vang such as a Garhauer and if so, how much you had to raise your boom to accommodate it. The other issue is clearance of the deck hatch immediately behind the mast--it would be nice to keep it forward opening.
Date: June 28, 2000
From: Jim McMordie jim.mcmordie@marconi.com
Paul,
The boom on my 76 E-32 was raised about 6" by the previous owner to provide clearance for a rather large bimini. I'm 6'-4" and standing under the bimini my head drags but there is plenty of clearance for a more normal height person. The boat sails fine with the higher boom. I don't have any of the weather helm problems that others talk about.
I also have the papers that came with my boat. The brochure is about 6 pages long, (1) picture of an E -32 sailing (incidently this picture has large rear windows instead of the 8 x 10 opening hatches) (2) gives general specifications, lists standard equipment, includes pictures of steering station, port hatch, cooler on st-bd side, winch w/teak box, bow (3) several interior pictures and interior descriptions (4) talks about layoup of glass and shows a couple of pictures (5) talks about "modestly quick" and general sailing propoganda (6) line drawing of boat. (pages not necessarly in that order)
If this sounds different from your info, call me and I'll send the stuff to you so you can copy.
Date: August 27, 2000
From: Tom Gilbert TGil95746@aol.com
Hi Paul. As you might know, I raised my boom about 6 to 8 inches. I first installed a bimini that I could stand under, then reattached the gooseneck for the boom. I did not have to cut the standard main sail, as it never went full up as it was, and it's only two years old. The bimini was fabulous for our 12 day cruise on the Hudson and the L.I. Sound, and now I will be enclosing the cockpit over the winter. Stay tuned.
Date: October 6, 2000
From: Don Shepard stoneware@journey.com
Paul have the sail recut or another crinkle put in abt 6" up from bottom one on both front and back or sail. You will have a little bag at bottom of sail but in 12mtr racing that's a common practice. I sure would consider the boom being able to raise or lower though so you can change it during heavier seas. That way you can place a down haul on the sail and reshape it as needed. You can shake out the back cringe to original when running down wind and have a flatter sail. I use my vang in different spots to hold down when running or sometimes when I working hard to get more power out just off stern beam. other wise my vang is either not on or stored lose with a bunge holding the slack line. Your thoughts.
