Topclimber

[Miker]

I've just unpacked my Topclimber and have found that the spacer strap referred to in the instructions is not included in the model sent to me. Yachtstyle is quite happy to replace the foot straps with a version with the spacer but I'm wondering whether to bother. Has anyone used a Topclimber without the leg spacer straps, and was it a problem if one's legs splayed out?

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[claymore]

Oh God - Mike, don't do it - wandering around Fleetwood with your legs spaced out is just asking for trouble.

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Claymore
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[tome]

Hi Miker

I bought one also and the strap wan't fitted. I contacted the UK distributor who turned up in my office the following day with a replacement bottom unit including the strap. If you need to contact him Charles Dodds at Yachstyle Tel 01276 675829 or email yachtstyle@tiscali.co.uk.

Since then I've discovered that a lot of people use them without the strap, and to be fair I've noticed very little difference as the strap can become a hindrance.

See <A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.atninc.com/topclimber.html>http://www.atninc.com/topclimber.html</A>

Regards
Tom

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[Miker]

Thanks. I will try it out without a strap despite Claymore suggesting that I will end up looking like a Wild West gunslinger.

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[tome]

Miker

There's a knack to using it you should be aware of (I learned the hard way!). It's designed to be used 'free standing' so take the static line away from the mast to a block on the toe rail or whatever, and lead it back to a cockpit winch. Make the other end off to a halyard and haul it all the way to the masthead. Winch in the static line nice and tight and lock it off on a cleat.

When climbing, you need to lean well back into the seat to get your knees high. The bottom clutch should meet the top clutch each time you do this. Don't attempt to use the harness to climb the mast, as I did. I reached the top but was knackered and my arms did most of the work.

It's also worth putting on a harness with a loop round the mast when you get to the top for added security.

I'm going down to the boat now as there's only a light breeze and I have some work to do aloft!

Good luck
Tom

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