Vang Idea for Ty Daysailers

[Joe Montana]

This might only apply to a Ty Daysailer, but it seems to me that the controversial "lifting" eye bolt in the bilge might be useful as an attachment point for a boom vang. Has anyone ever tried this? My daysailer cockpit has a removable teak floor grate that provides access to the bilge and bolt, which could be an anchor point for a boom vang. The vang could be attached to the boom with a "claw" or "yoke" fitting, which could be slid onto the end of the boom when needed. I see this as a possible way to rig a temporary vang for those times when you're on a long tack where it would help.

Has anyone ever tried this? Comments, anyone? Unfortunately the foot of my mainsail has a bolt rope, not slides, otherwise it would be easy to try this by looping a line over the mast.

[RayDewick]

The pivot point for the boom vang should be directly below the pivot point for the boom (gooseneck). Otherwise every time the boom moves the required length changes and adjustment is required. If your eyebolt is located correctly go ahead and use it. Since you have to buy a bail to mount the vang on your boom; buy one more to mount it on your mast and provide a permanent nautical looking set up for your boat. She deserves it.

[Steve Laume]

A bail on the mast may be a better set up. If the lifting eye is aft of the mast and you hooked up the vang all would be well until you eased off the main. You would have to be sure to ease the vang before the main. Otherwise all the strain would be transferred to the vang. This would not be good for your boom. Another bail on the mast would set you right up, Steve.

[Joe Montana]

Thanks, Steve and Ray. I appreciate your input. I've never used a boom vang, but of course I can see exactly what you're saying. The more I think about it, the less sure I am about "complicating" (even so slightly) such a simple and great-sailing boat.