Pogo 30 - Spreader, Sail Track, and Running Rigging Inspection; Rigging Care and Inspection Levels

Axxon Composites
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10. Inspect boom for fatigue. Check all attachment bails or pad eyes for signs of fatigue.
Is outhaul and reefing equipment in good order? Are mainsheet blocks and shackles
working properly?
11. Check the mast at deck-level. Look for excessive wear at halyard exit slots. Check sail
gate and mast track. Check mast step for cracks around weld area.
12. Inspect halyards: Attach spare line or halyard tail to halyard shackle and pull up to
inspect full length of halyard.
C. RIGGING CARE
The rigging is no stronger than its weakest point and rod rigging can break with no warning.
This is why it’s very important to follow this guideline to stay away from bad surprises.
There are four yacht categories define for different usage, mileage and sailing conditions.
o 1st category: Heavy displacement. For bluewater sailing, handled by crew
o 2nd category: Mid displacement. For offshore, handled by crew or shorthanded
o 3rd category: Light displacement. For coastal pleasure cruising/club racing, handled by
crew or shorthanded
o 4th category: Ultra-light displacement. For racing, handled by professional crew
The level of inspection is also divided into three categories:
o Level A – Visual inspection w/Mast in.
 Comprehensive general mast system visual inspection.
 Check all fittings/terminations, rod/fiber/wire, spreadears, sheaves, halyards,
headstay, backstay, mast base, partners, halyard blocks and chainplates.
 Check for cracks, corrosion, rust.
 Service log/update schedule for next service.
o Level B – Visual inspection w/Mast in – Jack Down.
 Start with level A inspection.
 Un-jack mast.
 Check for crack, bends, twist in fittings and rod.
 Check/lubricate all accessible fittings.
 Properly re-tune to align and seat all cold heads and hardware and generate proper
tension/tuning.
 Service log/update schedule for next service.
o Level C – Full-Service w/Mast out
 Un-step mast.
 Complete disassembly of mast/fittings.
 Visual inspection:
Clean/polish rod, cold heads and fittings to facilitate inspection process.