Installation Instructions - Boomkicker® Model K0312
Recommended Installation Tools: Phillips Screwdriver,
Fine Tooth Hacksaw.
1. General: The Model K0312
Boomkicker is designed for sailboats under 17' (5m) who's boom, with sail,
weighs under 16 lbs. (6.8kg). To the right is a sketch of the Model K0312.
The Boomkicker comes fully assembled. Two fiberglass rods provide
the force to support the boom. The boom sits in the sling between the rods.
The sling is held by the line to the gooseneck stop and controls the initial
height of the boom. The mast fitting and stop use slides in the luff groove
to avoid drilling. As shown, the Boomkicker works by flexing upward and when
straight, it is at the top of its travel. The Boomkicker does not restrict
the boom from rising higher.
2. Installing Mast Bracket and Gooseneck
Stop: The Boomkicker works best if the boom/gooseneck is
fixed in one spot on the mast. If the boom/gooseneck can slide, then in
the normal sailing position with the sail up, place a mark on the mast,
indicating the lowest point of the gooseneck inside the luff groove. Then
remove. Using the sail opening in the mast, slide the assembled base with
bracket and slide to the vang bail, do not tighten. Next slide the top of
the gooseneck stop to the mark and tighten. Reposition the boom against the
gooseneck stop. If the boom/gooseneck is fixed to the mast, the slides can
be detached, slid past the gooseneck and reassembled in position.
3. Final Positioning: Using
the main halyard, lift the aft end of the boom 6"- 8" (15cm - 20cm) above
horizontal or the normal sailing level. Orient the Boomkicker so the two
screw heads on the base are facing downward or aft, and the sling loop for
the line is forward. If the Boomkicker fits in the area above the vang,
hold the sling around the underside of the boom and adjust the mast fitting
location to make an angle between 40° and 45° with the boom. The sling
line should be loose and is adjusted later. If the angle is much lower than
40°, then as the spring rods flex, they lose ability to hold the boom.
Tighten the bracket in position. If the Boomkicker is too long or the angle
too low, it can be cut down. Shorten the bottom of the rods (loosen two
small screws in base to pull the rods out) equal lengths of no more than
5" (13cm). A fine tooth hacksaw works best and frayed ends can be avoided
by prewrapping a layer of tape around the rod at the cut.
4. Final Adjustments: With
the boom/gooseneck held against the stop, adjust the line between the sling
and gooseneck stop so the sling supports the boom. Since some initial stretch
can be expected under load, slightly overtighten. Disconnect the
halyard from the boom and press the boom down to flex the Boomkicker. It
should flex freely upward and have enough support for the boom and mainsail
without sagging.
Thanks again for choosing Boomkicker! Patents: 5070802,
6062155
WARRANTY: The following is made in lieu of all
warranties, expressed or implied. Seller's and manufacturer only obligation
shall be to replace or repair such parts of the product proved to be defective
for a period of five years.
|
