Lifeline Replacement

[SV Alfresco]

I'm going to replace the lifelines on my 367. One problem with the present lines is that the lower line interferes with the primary winches. A rigger suggested  that we just remove the lower line in that area. I'm not completely comfortable with that and would like to know what others have done. Also the present gate is about 4' wide. I have been noticing that many other boats have a much smaller gate and it seems more secure. Would you add another stanchion and brace to do this?

Mike

[SailingSeaDragon]

Mike,

For me, removing the lower lifeline is not a good option.... Just by bigger winches. All kidding aside, I have Lewmar 48ST and the lower lifelines are not a problem. However, I have two Lewmar 16ST aft of the primaries and the lower lifeline is a pain when using either of these winches.

http://www.sailingseadragon.com/Winches.htm

As for the gate, if you are considering reducing the gate size you will need another stanchion.

Garner

[P69]

Mike,

On my 367 the lower lifeline is not there between the last stanchion and the stern pulpit.  If it were there, the winch handle would smack it on every turn. I never really missed it now that you mentioned it.  I still don't.

As for the 4' gate, I love it. Yeah, it's wide it's nice to have a wide opening, especially when I come at the boat at an angle (from the dock) I have a big opening to step through. Also It's a nice opening for the boarding ladder, getting into the dinghy while some one else is holding it alongside, lowering stuff into dingy. Great for the kids jumping and climbing up.  Up the ladder is kinda awkward at first because one does not have two stanchions to grab to make that last step, but one gets used to that.   As far as security. just remember to close them and  make sure they stay closed.   Let me know if you want pictures.

[SV Alfresco]

Thank you your the replies. Think I'll go with the rigger's suggestion and also leave the gate the same size.  Garner, how is your preventer set up and what hardware did you use?

Thanks to all,
Mike

[SailingSeaDragon]

Mike,

My preventer set up is so very simple - I attach a 7/16 line to the outer end of the boom (clew), run it forward to the mid-ship cleat, around the cleat and back to the cockpit. I put the tail of the line on the little Lewmar 16ST winch, set the sail, and pull tight with self tailing winch. When jibing, I center the boom, tighten the mainsheet, Perform the jib, flip the preventer to the other side, around the mid-ship cleat, back to the other winch, set the sails, and pull tight again.

You can see the bright blue line (preventer) in the some of the pictures that are part of this post from 2006.
http://www.sailingseadragon.com/GovCup2006.htm

Garner

[Shacklepin]

Like Sea Dragon my lower lifeline terminates at the last stanchion which has a diagonal brace for stiffening.
When I renewed my lifelines I also re-bedded all the stanchions and moved my pulpit forward up onto the capping beam. It has opened up the access to both the anchors and I can get right round my furling drum. It's also a great place to sit when under full sail looking aft watching her power through the water as she was born to do.

[SV Alfresco]

Shacklepin,

When you moved the pulpit forward, how did you attach it? It doesn't seem like you could use machine screws. Wouldn't there be solid fiberglass under the capping beam?

Thanks,

mike