Is this classic?

[grumpydog]

this is our (there are five of us) 1932 Hillyard 9-tonner, Billy Blue. We have come to the point in the restoration where we need to figure out rigging etc. What do you think of this 'boom crutch' (I call it the radar arch!)? I know what I think - but do you think it's sympathetic? Pretty? Useful? Or a bit nasty?

 

[Tranona]

More properly called a gallows!

Can see your dilemma for sheet cleats, and for getting a good lead to the winches if you are going to mount them on those lovely platforms on the coamings.

 

[Gordonmc]

A case of the eye of the beholder, I think.
It may be unusual but it seems practical and also useful.
Its interesting comparing Billy Blue with Flap. The horse seems further aft than mine and is that a cranse for a bumpkin on the stern?
Nice to see the pic. Any more?

 

[Peterduck]

Aesthetically, it is fine as it is. If you have a look at others, you'll see that the posts are normally straight, so that the beam can be longer, which in turn allows three indentations to house the boom. When you are lying alongside a jetty and the crew are bobbing in and out of the cockpit, it can be handy to have the boom resting on the far side of the ship, out of the way. The gallows usually becomes useful for mounting other things apart from a solar panel. A man-overboard recovery system, for a start. Also a boom tent, for when the sun shines!
Peter.

 

[old_salt]

An extremely usefully piece of kit why should you wish to get rid of it as Peter says it can be put to use for many things.
Looking at it I think it is designed to fold down and lay in the canoe stern, I agree three indentations to house the boom. When you are lying alongside a jetty and the crew are bobbing in and out of the cockpit, would be handy. It looks a bit tight but they could be cut somewhat shallower in the ends of the cross member with out weakening it and as Peter says would really only be used when lying alongside a jetty or to make more head room in the cockpit when moored up. Although on second looks it looks quite high so head room might not be a problem and the centre position could very well serve it's purpose.

 

[oldharry]

Nowt wrong with it, and an interesting/unsual style. But if it seems 'a bit nasty' to you - then it is, and shouldnt be there! Obviously there are other people around who might take it of your hands and be pleased with it..... /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif