Baby stays Q and a prop Q

[Jim P]

We had our 97 X a few months now, been out 3 times. Great so far. One question: Do the baby stays serve any function other than stabilizing the mast laterally while raising it? Do most folks use them? Our prev boat, a compac 16 (for sale, btw) didn't have/need them with the mast raisable with one hand.

Also, asked a while ago but no specific answers, any prop recommendations for a 50 hp 4 stroke merc, non-bigfoot? Our current prop has a model #, but no pitch stamped anywere. It is overpitched, as we only get 14-15 mph w ballast out, and max out at 4800 RPM. Any mac dealers that are merc-savvy out there? Any owners w this engine that are happy w their prop and can advise?

Also, while I have the floor, any recommendations for greater Boston ramps with dock alongside to aid launch/retrieve? Until I get more experienced w wind and current, it is a bit hairy.

Thanks
Jim P in Westford Ma

[Frank C]

. . . Do the baby stays serve any function other than stabilizing the mast laterally while raising it? Do most folks use them?
. . . any prop recommendations for a 50 hp 4 stroke merc, non-bigfoot?
. . . .any recommendations for greater Boston ramps with dock alongside to aid launch/retrieve?

... Baby stays are optional after mast is up. Some like them as backup, plus it's easier to just leave 'em instead of stow 'em. Preferring to clear the decks, I remove them.
... The Merc Bigfoot is more common, and preferred prop is 14 diameter by 10 or 11 pitch. Your motor is max 12 diameter but 10 or 11 pitch is still probably a good start. Call Piranha Props in San Luis Obispo, CA. They'll send you a hub with replaceable blades in three different configs, yet charge for only one hub and blade set. Simply return the ones you like least.
... My usual ramp on SF Bay has all three benefits you mentioned - a finger dock, a cross-current, and plenty of beam wind. I like to approach w/ full centerboard, one rudder, at 45* from upwind (also up-current). Approach with wheel dead-ahead and enough speed to have steering control (2-3 kn?) . Just 2 feet before bow strikes dock, I reverse throttle and turn steering wheel toward the dock. This stops forward movement and sucks the stern in toward the dock. Proper execution finds us in perfect, parallel-parked position. It's important to be bold with speed or the current/wind mess things up. An "experienced" crew member can sit on the "dockside bow" w/ feet hanging over the rail, but I don't want anyone jumping for the dock.

[Sloop John B]

You'll need the baby stays if you use the mast raising kit. If you have a furled foresail, you'll need the mast raising kit (unless you're an Olympic weight lifter or built like Chip).

Without the furler, you can walk the mast up like Jeff, the Speedy Rigger. Just remember to keep the cabin hatch closed.

I leave my stays on, as well as the raising kit and tackle. They have to be loose enough to be able to get the mast base to the mast step when rigging. With the mast raised, they flop/sag. It takes too long to remove them for day sailing. On an extended cruise, or for a slipped boat, yes, remove them for less deck clutter.