Spreader Attachments for Lazy Jack's

[thesaintlyone]

So yesterday we were rigging our lazy jacks up and all was going well until all of a sudden the blocks I had attached to the spreaders (advised by a sail maker to put the lazy jacks out on the spreaders to help keep the lazy Jacks sufficiently apart ) pinged off of the starboard side. This is an old boat so doubt the spreaders are that strong. So at some point we have to go up the mast to reattach something. Now I know the usual way is to rivet a stainless loop with the small block attached as it was. But is there an alternative way thinking a strap type concept or jubillee clip type thingy that will go around the spreader to which a small block can be attched

 

[Pua]

Lazy jacks are usually attached to the mast for them to stay relatively same length as the boom swings from side to side. If they were on spreaders, they’d tighten or loosen as the boom moves. Anyways, if you want to attach them on spreaders with an alternative method, perhaps a hose clip around the spreader.

 

[rogerthebodger]

Either jubilee clips or stainless cable ties can be used which ever you have.

If your spreaders are aluminium U would wrap some plastic around to insulate the stainless clip from the aluminium of the spreader.

 

[Norman_E]

If you have a continuous rig its not a good idea to impose any significant downward force on the spreaders. I have seen a spreader forced downwards by someone applying too much tension to a lazyjack system, which risks rig failure. My lazyjacks come through small blocks attached to the mast, and pass through stainless rings which are held outwards by cords attached to the cap shrouds.

 

[srm]

A much neater way is to lash the block on using a thin tared nylon twine, of the type used for working on fishing nets. Available from a fishermen's chandlers. Stretch each turn tight through the shackle of the block. I have had such lashings hold for years and years, and no sharp edges or electrolysis problems as with hose clips.
I have had lazyjacks to blocks on the spreaders on my last three yachts without problems. However, much depends on the design of the mast fitting as they do provide a downward force. If concerned about potential spreader droop and the consequent risk of mast failure a s.s. U bolt of the type used for making an eye in wire would solve the problem. Bolt it around the shroud under the spreader (with the spreader at the correct angle). Or if galvanised rigging use a galvanised U bolt. Obviously use the correct U bolt for the wire diameter.

 

[LONG_KEELER]

My lazyjacks come through small blocks attached to the mast, and pass through stainless rings which are held outwards by cords attached to the cap shrouds.

That's a neat solution for widening the "throat" to ease getting the main up and down.

Will definitely give it a go.

 

[rgarside]

I replaced the nut on the outer of the two through-bolts that secure the spreaders to the through-mast root bar with an eye-nut.

 

[johnalison]

That's a neat solution for widening the "throat" to ease getting the main up and down.

Will definitely give it a go.

Mine are similar but the cords are bungee cord with a plastic eye from about halfway along the lower spreaders. The degree of separation is not as great, but it serves its purpose on my boat, as well as stopping the lazyjacks from chattering against the mast when sailing. the bungees need replacing very few years, of course.