I use a quick release clevis pin ...

Posted By: Gene Bragalone - 5.2 #485
Date: 2/11/08 2:06p.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

In Response To: Harpoon Boom Casting and Gooseneck (Ted, Harpoon599)

FYI, my gooseneck is fixed and is original (#485). I would be happier if it were the sliding type but not willing to change it. It works fine I use a quick connect clevis pin instead of a bolt/nut combo for connecting the boom to the mast as part of the gooseneck fixture ... it works WONDERFULLY. (I am tempted but hesitant to use one on the forestay, and did for years on my O'day with no problems, however I have since seen the damage from a disconnected shroud since then and gotten more conservative ) There is little going on around the gooseneck that could dislodge the quick connect pin, and am pretty confident it will continue to be fine. I have the pushbutton ring kind (bottom image)... came with the boat ... but would probably opt for the recessed funnel type (top image)to keep if from catching ANYTHING. Although, the ring type give you the option to put a safety line on it to keep from losing it. We just put it back into the detached boom section that gets stored in the boom/sail bag and have never lost it. They cost around $15 when I last looked.