quick release pins

Here are a couple of thoughts on clevis pins and rings (ring dings). They are definitely more secure than a quick release pin, so if you can learn to work with them they are the most secure connection. They don't require special tools. Small rings can be stiff, so a small blade driver to open may make them easier.

Normally you can pry open with your thumbnail. Place the nail in the ring within 1/8-1/4 inch of the end to pry open. push your thumb and forefinger in opposite directions to pry open. Slip onto the clevis pin and spin on.



Pry open with the clevis pin. Use the pin to wedge the ring open.



Pry open with a small tool.



There is a tool that holds them open for installation. Fishing shops may have that. Needle nose pliers or forceps work too.

Tape

I tape every ring that is not required to be removed. The ones at the anchor pin, twist toggle and shrouds (H16 / One side on other models requiring rig tensioning via the shroud). Tape helps to keep the rings from twisting out and covers the sharp ends that could catch on a sheet, rope or dock. Catching a line on a ring can pull them right out of a clevis pin. Also use boots over the adjusters. Use caution when pulling the boots down over the rings. Fold the ring flat against the adjuster / wire as you drop the boot down. This helps to prevent the boot from catching a ring and peeling it out.

Tape every ring that could possibly catch on lines or sails. This is especially true for spinnaker equipped boats or for longer voyages.

You can use a small piece of tape folded over the ring like bread on a sandwich or tape clear round the adjusters and rings several times.

I decided to order the toggle pins. I was hoping to get some feedback from people who have gotten away from the ring dings. I am pretty sure there are people who have been successful with alternatives. I just wanted to make sure I was making a good choice. There is no way in the world I believe ring dings is the best idea out there.

As innovative as Hobie is, surely they can sell boats with forestay fasteners that people actually want to use. When you look at the boat as a whole, it is truly impressive how well thought out it is. But ring dings? Come on.

I feel your pain. Matt has more nimble fingers or better fingernails than I have. I hate those frickin' ring-dings. But, ya know, having a quick disconnect pin on the thing that keeps that mast from falling on your head...

I used the pushbutton quick disconnects on my H-17, and they worked fine. I'm just hesitant to risk dropping the mast. I had a side shroud break on my H-17 and the mast slammed down on the side away from us. And once on my Getaway, the jib shackle pin came out ALMOST all the way, which would have dropped the mast backwards to where the 4 of us were sitting. The mast is big. And heavy.

This looks like it would be legitimate alternative to the clevis pin and ring ding. How would this work itself out?