Yeah, I always use two halyards too... even if one is somewhat slack... at least it keeps you from being "deck pizza." And yes, I tie on too... 'course I have always hauled up someone else...

Dan y... excellent idea... lube first, take pics and then worry about the rest later. GRIN (study those pics with a cold beverage and make new plans... I like it.)

Like most of the old stuff on my old boat, a touch of lube DOES indeed go a long way. I've seen blocks suddenly work, hatches slide better, and jib cars become useable, just by applying a bit of lube. (soap and fresh water seems to help too.)

Too bad I can't lube these sheaves as easily as I just lubed the mainsail track... just hoisted a rag soaked in Sailkote up and down the mainsail track a few times... and whoosh, that main drops like NOW!