Boomkickers are the simple, affordable solution to supporting the boom and eliminating the hang-ups, adjustments and chafe of a topping lift. In light air, lifting the boom opens the leech for a faster sail shape and more speed. Boat performance is improved with less weight and windage aloft. Reefing is safer and easier with better boom control. The simple design eliminates sliding parts and friction. Boomkickers have proven durable and reliable with thousands sold. Patented flexing spring provides fast response and a near constant force for higher vang efficiency. The lightweight, low profile design is good for performance and looks. Easy installation independent of the vang. No need to replace existing hardware. Fittings, fasteners, drill and tap are included for a complete package. Mast fitting slides in the luff groove to eliminate drilling in the mast. Non-corroding and silent. Little features with big paybacks. Self tending for hands off operation. Install It - Forget It! Guaranteed to make your sailing more enjoyable. Racing or Cruising, Expert or Novice, the Boomkicker is the Simple Solution.
Measuring: Some basic measurements can insure a proper fit. First the Boomkicker must provide enough support for the boom and mainsail if the mainsail is stored folded or flaked on the boom and second, if there is an existing vang, the Boomkicker needs to fit in the area above.
Support: To determine the model with sufficient return force to support the boom, one easy method is to weigh the aft end of the boom and compare it to 1/12 the maximum force in the table. 1/12 of the maximum forces from the table are; K1500 - 50 lbs, K1000 - 34 lbs, K0750 - 21 lbs., K0400 - 13 lbs. and K0312 - 6.5 lbs.. Note these are conservative numbers for a stable boom. So for example if the aft end of the boom weighs 28 lbs., the model recommended would be the K1000. One method to weigh the aft end of the boom is to stand on a bathroom scale and note the difference when lifting the boom.
Fit: To determine if a Boomkicker model will fit above existing block and tackle vang, with the boom horizontal, measure the existing vang between where it attaches to the fittings on the mast and boom and subtract 7". This gives an approximate expected length for the Boomkicker which can be compared to the pin to pin lengths of the models in the table. To continue the example, if the K1000 is required for support, the minimum length needed after subtracting 7" is 35". The closer the length is to 45"(the supplied length of the K1000 Boomkicker) or longer, the better, with easier installation and less shortening required. In some cases customers have moved the vang attachment on the boom aft to get more length and better leverage on the boom. If a block and tackle vang will be added, choose the model based on support, and to avoid having to shorten, install the block and tackle vang after the Boomkicker. A last consideration is the minimum vertical length along the mast under the boom for mounting. More is preferred for better operation and easier installation. K1500 - min. 22"; K1000 - min. 18"; K0750 - min. 13"; K0400 - min. 17"; K0312 - min. 16".
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