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 step�s 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 pole�s 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.