Lower Shroud Disconnect

[stephen p. ormond]

I am storing "Schipperke" (1990, hull #1052) this winter with the mast up, but would like to prepare for fixing some leakage around the lower shroud deck plates in the spring by disconnecting the lower shrouds now and airing out the through-deck area over the winter while she is shrink wrapped.  My question is whether the mast will survive the winter with the lower shrouds disconnected from the deck plates.  We have some heavy winds in the winter!  Has anyone tried this?

Steve Ormond
"Schipperke"
Detroit, MI

[Ted Pounds]

Steve,

You might try using some line to attach the lower shrouds to another point, say the genoa track or  midship cleats.  That should provide enough extra support to give you peace of mind over the winter.

Ted Pounds