Macgregor 26S Owner Modifications and Upgrades

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26S pop top gas struts

posted 06-09-2022 by stickinthemud57


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I ordered several different struts from Amazon and found a combination that worked:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GLY2NSC?ps ... ct_details

These come 6 to a package, so you have two spares. All mounting hardware provided. Only 16 bucks.

I chose these because the longer ones didnt have enough travel to work in the space provided, and the total force matched the load better.

Ideal: Holds the pop-top up without need for lashing it to the mast in calm conditions. Otherwise, holds it in place while you lash it to the mast. No more two-person operation or fumbling with the lug slot clip, which was constantly fouling the jib sheets. If one fails, the others will still hold the top up.

Less than ideal: Because of mounting limitations, these dont provide lift assistance until the top is about halfway up. Past that, dont force it, because the action is damped and doing so could bend the mounting brackets. Ask me how I know.

See photos for mounting details.

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I added an extra screw to keep the bracket from creeping.

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Using this spacing mounting should get you the desired result.

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