Moving the boom higher

[Guilhem]

Hello,
Is it possible to weld the boom about a foot higher on the mast of a GB42, so that it doesn't interfere with an added aft deck bimini, but still remains usable to load stuff on board when the bimini is rolled off?
I'm thinking about simply having the attachment point welded higher up on the mast tube. Assuming the job is done correctly and as sturdy as the original attachment point, what would be the impact on the weight rating by being attached higher? Ideally I would want to be able to lift a maximum of 100 kgs (200 lbs). Doable?
Thanks

 

[SteveK]

Most GB have the boom at about 30* to sky, not level, would that work? Otherwise I cannot see a reason one foot higher would make and load difference. I lift a 175 lb dingy no problem so far.

 

[Guilhem]

Ok, I think I figured out the image posting, here:

As you can see, the current owner of the boat has set-up a bimini (the blue one, not very clearly visible since a brown one is in the background from the next boat). The bimini traps the boom, which means it can't be used. And, it's too low, one keeps banging one's head on it.
Lifting it at a 30 degree angle doesn't work.
That's why I'm considering to move it higher, so that it's out of the way, but still I could open up the bimini and use the boom to pick up an item on the deck and drop it in the water.
Thoughts?

 

[SteveK]

Oh, you have the raised aft deck. Yes your option is to go above or eliminate the boom.

 

[Benthic2]

How often would you actually use this ? If you fold the bimini forward against the mast it looks like you would probably be able to swing the boom 120 degrees or so.

 

[OldDan1943]

IMO, take the aft bimini off and put it in the storage shack.
Problem solved.

 

[KnotYet]

The connection of the boom to the mast is called a gooseneck in the US.
If the original is welded on you should be able to source a new one locally.

It may be possible to clamp or bolt it on. This should do for the light loads you are
lifting.
If you decide to have it welded on be sure to protect your radome, etc, from stray
currents, not to mention any cable runs inside the mast.

 

[Bacchus]

I dont see why your plan wouldn't work.
Worth checking if you can fold the Bimini fwd or aft at whatever level you choose. The bows will likely swing higher as its folded and rotated.

 

[Guilhem]

How often would you actually use this ? If you fold the bimini forward against the mast it looks like you would probably be able to swing the boom 120 degrees or so.

Now that is really smart, thank you. For whatever reason, I was set that the bimini had to be fold backwards towards the stern, but you're right, folding all the way forward until it leans on the mast should then allow to use the boom to grab something on the deck and drop it offboard.
Then it will be a matter of seeing how often I bang my head when walking around - this can wait. You probably saved me a couple of boat-bucks, thanks a lot !!!

 

[Guilhem]

gooseneck, that's the word I was after...

Thanks to all who took the time to answer, I think I'm set for now, will report back once I get the boat and start to use this.