Mainsheet Block | Installation

The mainsheet ratchet block had been ready to fit for some time, but I didn't get around to doing it because it wasn't on the critical path for anything.

So, in between other tasks I eventually decided to fit the block.

You might recall that the block has to be fitted to a separate pad on the cockpit deck, which spans the centreboard case. This is because the base of the block itself is very narrow and would require fastening from inside the case, which is obviously not possible.

So here is a view of the underside of the support pad, with the foot of the block fastened in place in its recess.

I have used butyl tape to seal the block fastenings inside the recess, to prevent water ingress.

Next the pad was secured in place on the deck. Here it is with plenty of sealant to bed it down, and using a metal rule to hold the machine screw heads in place.

The rule is held in position with lumps of Blue Tack while the Nyloc nuts are tightened from below deck.

That was quite straightforward. Here is the block, finally installed.

Another tick off the To Do list!