Hi Chuck:
Not only can 1 person raise a P19 mast; you can do it easily without the expense of the mast raising system. Here's how:
1. Balance the mast on the mast crutch so that the step is aligned with the fitting on the cabin top.
2 .Insert the aft bolt through the maststep and deckfitting and secure it
3. Double check that all lines are not fouled on something
4. Tie a line to the end of the head stay ( or use the masthead spinnaker halyard if installed) and lead the line forward around a convenient point. I use my anchor roller but the pulpit rail works fine. Hold the line in your hand
5. Stand on the step in the cockpit and lift the mast to your shoulder. Be careful to minimize the side load on the mast step.
6. Close hatch and put knee on closed hatch top
7. Put other knee on cabin top. Push up mast as you go
8. Stand up. Continue pushing up on mast. Take in slack on line you ran around the forward point
9. Ease the mast to full upright position. Take out all the remaining slack in line
10. Walk forward, holding the line taut until you reach bow
11. Grab deck end of head stay and hook it up .
That's it.
I've used this method with the boat on the trailer and in the water for 5 years with no problems. For reference, I'm 6'0", 210 lbs, and 58 years old
Hope this helps,
Mac Davis
Kelpie, WWP19#804
Aripeka, FL
----- Original Message -----
From: Charles O'Morrow
To: wwpotter@tscnet.com
Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2000 8:02 PM
Subject: P19 Mast Raising
I am an avid Charleston, SC reader presently without a boat. This area is GREAT for sailing. The harbor, the ICW, several large rivers, inland lakes and the deep blue. Even the sailing schools here sail in Jan and Feb.
Hopefully this will be the "year of the Potter" for me. But which one ?? I have rigged and sailed the P15 (in January) A great craft, easy to rig solo in a few minutes, but how about the 19?? Is it truly possible to rig by one person? Can I handle this alone with the mast raising system or does it take a super human?? I am of normal size, strength, and stamina.
Past experience with other sail craft I have owned tells me my "Mate" won't last more than about 3 voyages and it will be me and the dog after that. (she's a great companion and even has web feet!!) - dog that is..
So-oooo, I need the straight stuff. I hoped the IM tape would give me some insight .... but alas ... no such luck. Everything I read says "....... CAN BE ..." but is anyone really doing it???
ChuckO'
Charleston, SC
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