sailboat seamanship 181
in each sheet block. Snatch blocks should open easily. Test each winch for
smooth operation. Inspect halyards, mainsheets, topping lift s, and vangs.Lines, too: Check for chafe where lines exit blocks, cam cleats, or clutches.
Look for chafe at any eyesplice attached to a strap, becket, or shackle.
Check the lines between the blocks (sometimes called falls) on boom
vangs, mainsheets, and traveler cars. Falls may chafe where they contact the
deck. Run the traveler car out to each end of the track. Check for smooth
operation. If the car sticks, use a light waterproof lubricant on the track.
Check the traveler car stops. Screw and plunger pin stops corrode if not
exercised. Apply lubricant as needed.
INSPECTING HIDDEN EQUIPMENT
Our checklist continues with equipment oft en overlooked because it is hidden and
not in plain view. Most of this gear lives in deck lockers, in aft lazarette spaces, or
beneath the cockpit deck. Modify the list specifi cally for your own boat.
- Wheel quadrant system. Our sixth component hides beneath the wheel.
Pop open the round or square inspection port to inspect the steering
gear. Move the wheel from stop to stop. Look for distortion or slack in the
steering cables. Locate the emergency tiller access port. Place the emergency
tiller in a location close to the helm.
SEA-CRET TIP
X A medium-sized cruising sailboat may have twenty
or more cotter pins just keeping stays and shrouds
in place. Stay away from cotter rings, referred to as
ring-dings. They tend to distort and vibrate out of
their holes. Stick with the reliable cotter pin.SEA-CRET TIP
X Mark the access cover for the emergency tiller. Use a permanent
felt-tip marker or refl ective tape, which makes this easy to fi nd by
day or night.