Educating a retired sailor

I'm retired, new to sailing and just acquired a beat up Prindle 18 (hope this doesn't disqualify me from getting help). I have a number of questions that the owners manual doeasn't seem to answer: Some are (1) I have a front fork for carrying the mast but nothing for a rear mast support fork. Is there a simple way to overcome this situation? (2) I need a rope for uprighting the boat should if tip over--where on the mast do I attach it and how long should it be, etc? (3) Is there a better source for obtaining answers to the questions I have and will have?

I've a grandson coming to visit the first week in August so I'd appreciate help from you more experienced sailors.. Thanks...

I am certain you can get some help on this forum however you may be better served by joining the Yahoo Group beachcats. Another forum about all types of catamarans - and lots of help and pictures etc.

Login to yahoo click on groups and type in beachcats in the search field. First entry found will be the group you want to join. Best of luck, I am a new sailor too, and they have been very helpful.

Chuck

You can also check online at CatSailor.com. they have an extensive discusion group there that can help you.

The Skier
1973 H16

I asked a similar question about a righting system for my Hobie 18. Check the reponse in this forum. The advice helped me.

It's funny - nobody answered your first two questions, which are fairly simple:

1. I assume you are talking about trailering, where the front of the mast has a support and the back doesn't. Most trailering setups support the mast on the rear crossbar of the boat. You can get all sort of aftermarket items to support the mast and protect the crossbar from wear. However, you can get away with using a throwable life preserver (cushion) between the mast and the crossbar. Use a couple of bungee cords to hold the whole thing together.

2. The "standard" (class legal) minimum length of a Hobie righting line is 14 feet. It's usually tied to the dolphin striker or the front crossbar in the center of the boat. Should be about the same for the Prindle. Experiment with a longer line first, then trim off any excess.

I hope this helps.

Matt Bounds

P.S. - ditch the prindle. Get something that you can still get parts for.