Maybe an easier way, would be to disconnect the backstay at the transom,
bring it forward to the base of the mast, and then you probably can reach
the block. If you have a keel stepped mast, nothing special is required. If
you have a deck stepped mast, you probably want to support the mast with the
main halyard brought back to the transom, tied off and tightened up. You
would have to do this anyway to take the tension off of the backstay to
disconnect it.

David
wrote in message
ups.com...
I have a block for a flag halyard connected to my backstay about 15
feet above my deck. The block has failed, and I'd rather not unstep
that mast to replace the block.

Can I used a bosun's chair and connect the main halyard around the
backstay to lift someone up to the fitting to replace it?


My main concern is placing 180 to 200 pounds of strain on the backstay.
Logic tells me this is okay though, since the forestay carries the
genoa, but before I try, I'd like other opinions.

Thanks!