Taking my boom apart I found the same problems as Rhapsody (
Disaster waiting to happen): the mainsheet bail bolt has worn the hole, elongating it so the bail rides lower, allowing the wire outhaul tail to saw halfway through the bolt. I switched from wire to covered spectra five years ago but apparently failed to check the bolt, which has been slowly cutting through the rope.
Like Rhapsody I'll add a sleeve to the bolt to protect it and the outhaul tail. I'm not so enthusiastic about Rig-Rite or their Boom Bail Bearing Plate. I'd prefer an internal sleeve, external saddle or some other solution. I've seen several J/30s in pictures and videos here using internal fittings (no bail), multiple bails, or fabric straps, none of which strictly speaking are consistent with class rules. Maybe these alternatives should be allowed for repairs.
Anybody have a short length of boom section lying around or a part that would fit inside? Other ideas or suggestions on this repair?
