Connecting/Disconnecting the Shrouds

Mike Moody and Pat Dolan report the following method for disconnecting or connecting the shrouds without adjusting the turnbuckles will enable you to avoid having to readjust the tension in the shrouds each time you step or unstep the mast. The method was taught Mike and Pat by Brian Hayes of North Sails at a regatta in Nashville, TN. It requires two people.

To disconnect:

1. Remove mast blocks.
2. Disconnect the back stay
3. Disconnect one lower shroud. Take the tension off the shroud by standing on the foredeck and pushing the mast toward the stern.
4. Disconnect the upper shroud that is next to the remaining connected lower shroud (on the other side of the boat from the lower you disconnected in step 3). Take the tension off the shroud by pulling the remaining connected lower shroud and the forestay toward each other. Using sailing gloves may be useful.
5. Disconnect the remaining lower shroud. Take tension off by pushing the mast toward the stern if necessary.
6. Disconnect the remaining upper shroud. There will be no tension at this point.
7. Disconnect the forestay.

To connect, reverse the process:

1. Make sure the mast is properly seated.
2. Connect the forestay.
3. Connect one upper shroud.
4. Connect the opposite lower shroud.
5. Connect the remaining upper shroud. Relieve tension by pulling the connected lower shroud and the forestay toward each other. Using sailing gloves may be useful.
6. Connect the remaining lower shroud. Relieve tension by pushing the mast toward the stern.
7. Connect the backstay.