Installation Instructions - Boomkicker® Model K1500

Important: To avoid undue stress on the boom fitting, booms need to be fixed in the upright position. If the boom can roll about its' central axis, please contact the factory before installation.
Recommended Installation Tools: Phillips Screwdriver; Fine Tooth Hacksaw; Center Punch; Rule; Variable Speed Reversible Drill and blue Locktite.

1. Setup Boom Height: Use the main halyard to support the boom above its highest operating position (typically with the outboard end 10" (25cm) to 16" (41cm) above the horizontal.) Note: If the boom accidentally lifts aprox. 10" (25cm) beyond this height, the Boomkicker releases from the boom fitting (safety feature). To prevent accidental release, restrict vang travel by either cleating the vang, restricting travel with a knot or adjusting the length of a cascade. At this time, check that the Model K1500 is correct. The min. length is 43" (109cm) pin to pin and the max. weight it can support is aprox. 50 lbs. (23kg) measured at the outboard end of the boom with the main sail flaked.

2. Position Boomkicker: The Boomkicker works by flexing upward and when straight, it is at the top of its travel. Install the Boomkicker with the screw head side of rod clamps facing up. With the boom height set, position the Boomkicker with fittings alongside the vang triangle to see how it fits. Position is not critical so long as it does not interfere with the vang (it is recommended that both the vang and the Boomkicker make an angle of between 30o and 45o with the boom). Mark the location for the mast fitting.

3. Install Mast Fitting: The mast fitting comes with a luff groove slide to avoid drilling the mast. Different diameters and flat slides are available. If usable, the slide can often be inserted at the mast opening for the sail and lowered with a string. Reassemble the mast fitting at the desired location and tighten the screws. If the slide is unusable, the fitting may be screwed directly to the mast. Use the 1/4" drill and the 5/16-18 tap provided, with the mast fitting bracket as a guide. A variable speed, reversible drill makes tapping easy. Use Locktite on threads.

4. Shorten if Necessary: If the Boomkicker is too long, loosen the rod clamps on the mast end extension with the provided hex-key and slide the extension up the rods until there is a good fit. The clamp fittings for each extension have embossed stops to prevent slipping. If the rod length protruding beyond the rod clamps is more than 5" (13cm), replace the present rods with the smaller rods. Do not shorten total length more than 10" (25cm). Cut off extra rod length equally from both rods with a fine tooth hacksaw. Before tightening the clamps, check the rod ends are against the embossed stops and the boom extension is not twisted relative to the mast extension.

5. Install Boom Fitting: Make sure the rod clamps at both ends are tight. With the Boomkicker in position and slid to the back of the boom fitting, mark its location. Using the boom fitting as a template, center punch (to prevent wandering), then drill and tap one hole. Tapping with a variable speed, reversible drill makes it easy. Attach the boom fitting as a guide to center punch, drill and tap the remaining holes. Use Locktite on threads. After installation, check return force by pushing down on the end of the boom. Excessive return force will make the boom bow upward. For reference, with the sail flaked, only about 10 lbs. (4.5kg) should be needed to pull the end of the boom down. If the force is excessive, use the smaller diameter rods. If already in use, additional rods are available.

6. Warranty: The following is made in lieu of all warranties, expressed or implied. Seller's and manufacturer only obligation shall be to replace or repair such parts of the product proved to be defective for a period of five years. User shall determine the suitability of the product for its intended use and user assumes all risk and liability whatsoever in connection therewith.

If you have questions call 1-888-756-8883 our tech department is here to assist you.