In-Boom Reefing Line

[Calypso]

My stopper knot in my in-boom reefing line somehow let go and the end of the reefing line is now inside the boom. I'll have to somehow thread my reefing line out of the boom.

Does anybody have any experience doing this? Or any ideas, thoughts or comments? Thanks in advance.

[Harris]

When it comes to getting lines (rope and wire) out of booms and masts, I have found that some sound thinking works better then a bold effort. I work with a group of guys that pull some wiring in the most difficult places. In order to get a "leader line," through to the main line sometimes they use a vaccum cleaner and suck the line through the hole. Other times they greese and pull it through. In the boom, why not try some wire and slowly work it through the hole and then connect the line to the wire. I guess I'm saying just pull it out and start over.

Harris

[Calypso]

The vaccum cleaner idea sounds interesting. It might be possible to attach a long tube or thin hose to the end of a vaccum and start with a light weight leader thread and then lead a stronger leader line through before leading through the actual line.

Thanks! I'll let you know how it turns out. Given that our sailing season is so short here in the Northeast, and my boat is at a mooring (I doubt a light vacuum will have enough sucking power) this may have to wait to until this winter, but I'll keep everyone posted.

[tseibert]

I've had pretty good luck with an electricans fish tape there real stiff , they have a loop arrangment that I cut off or tape up closed as I've hear stories of them getting stuck
Hope this helps