Function of a Boom Compression Strut

[Sallyboy]

I'm familiar with boom vangs but the boat we're chartering next week has a boom compression strut. Any knowledge I could gain about this hardware such as, does it only assist with compression loads, will it extend when loaded in tension? I read somewhere that if you drop the main without tensioning the topping lift the strut could actually damage the boom. The boat is a Voyage 52. I'm sure I can get answers at the briefing but a little advanced info would be helpful.
Thanx

[Bash]

Originally Posted by Sallyboy

I'm familiar with boom vangs but the boat we're chartering next week has a boom compression strut. Any knowledge I could gain about this hardware such as, does it only assist with compression loads, will it extend when loaded in tension? I read somewhere that if you drop the main without tensioning the topping lift the strut could actually damage the boom. The boat is a Voyage 52. I'm sure I can get answers at the briefing but a little advanced info would be helpful.
Thanx

It's basically just a rigid vang. Some rigid vangs have a pneumatic strut inside them to help support the weight of the boom. Nothing to worry about, but realize that if you release the vang and the mainsheet at the same time, the boom will rise. On my boat, the outboard end of the boom can go up almost two meters.

[SkiprJohn]

Can you launch crew that way?
kind regards,

[Sallyboy]

Bash
I don't think the component is "release-able" but I'll let you know on our return.

[Bash]

Originally Posted by SkiprJohn

Can you launch crew that way?

Is the cat considered crew?

[STG]

Originally Posted by Bash

Is the cat considered crew?

Hahahaha! Reminds me of one of the funniest movie scenes I have ever seen. (The Dove). I still laugh out loud everytime I think of it.

[ggray]

I don't think you have anything to worry about. Usually there is also a topping lift, slack, but that's OK.

You should release the halyard under some sort of control anyway (a wrap or two); then there would be no harm done.