[Rhodes22-list] Topping lift

[Robert Skinner]

Steve Alm wrote:
> That's an intriguing idea--using the topping lift/boom to hoist an injured
> person or cargo...
> But I like your idea.  Have you beefed yours up?  Is yours rigged
> differently?    I don't know what a "billy" is.
-------------------------------------------------------
Steve -

A handy billy is a small block and tackle, generally with a 4:1 
or better mechanical advantage and something like a 500 lb
capacity, as I understand it.  Somewhat like a deer hoist, but
a bit stronger and with two double pulleys, one with becket.

As the typical person or cargo weighs less than 500 lbs, and a
boom vang has to deal with that amount of tension or more, you
can rig the vang with carabiners or other easily openable links, 
letting you move it to a boom-end position.  Keep a couple of 
forged hooks in your anchor bucket, and you are in business.

My topping lifts are made of 1/4" spectra, capacity 2000+ lbs.

Warning - lifting heavy cargo with this sort of rig has two 
dangers that must be taken into account:

1.  The boom and gooseneck were not originally designed for this
type of load/usage.  Keep an eye on the gooseneck for signs of 
failure, and DO NOT PUSH SIDEWAYS ON THE BOOM WHEN UNDER LOAD.
The boom will do reasonable well under straight compression,
but lateral force when under compression invites failure.

2.  500 pounds at the end of the boom, when extended over the 
beam, adds a lot of capsizing force.  Watch for sudden loads
that may pull you over, and keep chubby friends on the opposite 
side of the boat to help counterbalance the load.

Hope that fills in the chinks in my earlier post.
-- 
Robert Skinner
"Squirrel Haven", 9 Gateway Commons, Gorham, Maine 04038-1331