We step/unstep with the setup shown in the linked photos. Raising and
lowering is done safely with just one person at the winch who is able
to stop at any point up or down - in order to straighten out
shrouds, remove twist of aft lower fittings etc.
You'll have to zoom in to see details.
https://mywebspace.wisc.edu/jjacobs/web/Express/Winsome%20bow.JPG...
https://mywebspace.wisc.edu/jjacobs/web/Express/Winsome.JPG?uniq=...
A mast crutch with a 4 keel roller supports the top of the mast
after it is lifted from the stern rail. The mast is rolled back on
the crutch until the step hinge is lined up and pin is inserted.
In-line lowers are temporary attached to u-bolts (on athwartship
plywood platform above toe rail) that are in line with the steps
hinge pin. The in-line lowers are adjusted with light tension to
stabilize mast while raising/lowering.
A spinnaker pole is used as a strut to lift the jib halyard which
significantly reduces forces on the halyard, mast and step. The pole
clips to a hinge fitting on the plywood platform just forward of the
step and is stabilized by stays that terminate at points in line with
the poles hinge pin.
When raising and lowering, aft lowers and backstay are left attached.
Uppers and intermediates are disconnected but loosely tied (long)
with small line to their respective chain plates. The jib halyard is
securely tied to the gooseneck and pole. A separate line runs from
the pole end through a 3" block at the stem and back to the winch.
The mast crutch is unnecessarily long in the photos. It has since
been shortened to about 48" so the mast just clears the cabin top
when it is pinned to the step and resting on the crutch.
