Ryan, +1 for what Patrick said.
One extra note, though – the carabiners you use should be locking type (any time you use a carabiner to attach yourself to, it should be locked). One more – instead of using a Prusik’s knot, use an extra ascender. Three would be enough (2 for climbing, one for extra backup – different line). The third one can be much smaller and cheaper than the two working ones (it is there only to stop you, if the main line you hang from breaks). Take a few loops made of webbing for attaching yourself securely at the mast top or spreaders (actually, anywhere, where you work). It is much easier to hang from a properly attached webbing than from the halyard (e.g. you will swing much less). Attach all tools to your harness with some paracord. Climbing down and up for the screwdriver is not that much fan (especially after the second time). Not critical, but useful – take your cell phone with you. You can take a few pictures, but you can also use in in case of emergency. Don’t use any shackles to attach yourself to the halyard – use knots, and only knots that you can trust. Climbers know how to use ropes for climbing, so follow their advice (not the sailors’) (;-) good luck and stay safe. Marek 1994 C270 “Legato” Ottawa, ON From: Patrick Davin via CnC-List Sent: Thursday, March 16, 2017 12:25 To: cnc-list@cnc-list.com ; ryanpdo...@gmail.com Cc: Patrick Davin Subject: Re: Stus-List Climbing the mast solo Here's how I do it: https://svviolethour.com/2015/04/22/how-to-climb-the-mast-solo-part-2/ https://svviolethour.com/2015/02/28/cleaning-the-boat-climbing-the-mast/ (earlier post with my first attempt; part 2 above has more details) There are many different ways to do it. One of my goals was doing it cheaply, with equipment I mostly already had. If you're willing to spend some $$$, ATN mastclimber might be easier. -Patrick 1984 C&C LF38 On Thu, Mar 16, 2017 at 9:00 AM, <cnc-list-requ...@cnc-list.com> wrote: From: Ryan Doyle <ryanpdo...@gmail.com> To: cnc-list@cnc-list.com Cc: Bcc: Date: Thu, 16 Mar 2017 11:01:15 -0400 Subject: Stus-List Climbing the mast solo Hi All, I need to replace the radar dome on my mizzenmast this weekend. It's about 22' up. I'm in solid shape and can climb without a problem. However, I have never climbed a mast before, and I have to do this work alone. I'm curious if anyone here has suggestions for doing this safely. Is it possible, or should I call in a professional? I'll be down on the eastern shore of the Chesapeake, so I'm sure I could find someone, but I'd rather learn to do this myself and I'd rather spend $ on mast climbing equipment than on a pro. I'm sure this won't be the last time I have to do this. Any advice is appreciated. Thanks so much. Ryan Juniper - 1983 Pearson 424 Ketch (Former 1976 C&C 30) Sent from my iPhone
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