Harken Vang-Master VM-1 User manual

Please read these instructions carefully before using or servicing the equipment.
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Harken Vang-Master
INSTALLATION MANUAL
Installation Manual – Intended for specialized personnel or expert users
5384 V1 03/21

2 Harken Vang-Master
WARNING! Strictly follow all instructions to avoid potential hazards that may
kill or hurt you and others. See www.harken.com/manuals for general warnings
and instructions.
WARNING! This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that may kill or hurt you and others
if you don't follow instructions. The message will tell you how to reduce the
chance of injury.
This manual gives technical information on installation and service. This information is for specialized personnel or expert
users. Installation, disassembling, and reassembling by personnel who are not experts may cause serious damage to prop-
erty or injury to users and those in the vicinity of the product. If you do not understand an instruction contact Harken.
The user must have appropriate training in order to use this product.
Harken accepts no responsibility for damage or harm caused by not observing the safety requirements and
instructions in this manual. See limited warranty, general warnings, and instructions in www.harken.com/manuals.
Purpose
The Harken Vang-Master is designed to attach to the mast and boom on a sailboat as a mainsail control. Use of this product
for other than normal sailboat applications is not covered by the limited warranty.
Safety Precautions
CAUTION! This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that may hurt you and others if
you do not follow instructions. The message will tell you how to reduce the
chance of injury.
Parts Included and Ordered Separately
Purchase separately
• Vang gooseneck and boom lug fittings if required
• 4:1 or 6:1 block and line kit -
Cascades the 2:1 purchase to 8:1 or 12:1 respectively
Cascades the 4:1 purchase to 16:1 or 24:1 respectively
• Cleats and accessories for double ended systems
Vang assembly including:
Line and sheave to provide 2:1 primary purchase which
is cascaded by a block and tackle (sold separately) for
a 8:1 or 12:1 purchase The VM7 and VM8 come with
an additional lead ring and deadend for a cascaded 4:1
purchase which is further cascaded by the block and
tackle for a 16:1 or 24:1 purchase.
Fork fittings with pins to attach to vang gooseneck on
mast and boom lug.
Introduction Warnings, Purpose, Parts Included
VM7 and VM8
4:1 cascaded
purchase
VM1 through VM6
2:1 primary purchase

Harken Vang-Master 3
Introduction Description and Terms
Harken® Vang-Master(VM) rigid vang is mounted near the mast partners and to the boom at an approximate 45 degree
angle. It provides downward pressure using a block and tackle and upward force using air pressure to hold the boom up
when the mainsail is lowered and stowed. The VM also lifts the boom while sailing to open the leech to provide airflow in
light air. Air pressure can be added with a bike pump or let out at any time in order to set the amount of lift to your boat.
The VM uses a Schrader air valve.
The VM has an integral sheave with Dyneema line to provide a 2:1 primary purchase. The end of the line has a spliced loop.
Attach a 4:1 or 6:1 Harken block and tackle to loop to create a cascaded purchase system that is either 8:1 or 12:1. The block
and tackle can have an integral cleat or set up to be double-ended and led aft to cleats on the boat. The VM7 and VM8 come
with an additional lead ring and deadend for a 4:1 cascaded purchase which is cascaded again for a 16:1 or 24:1 purchase.
Use existing vang gooseneck on mast and boom lug to fit fork style fittings located on the ends of the vang.
Use a high quality bicycle floor pump to provide air pressure. Pressure will typically be over 100 psi (690 kPa).
Terms
Block and tackle,
upper block
(sold separately)
Block and tackle,
lower block
(sold separately)
Cross bar
Primary 2:1
line
Schrader
air valve
Mast-end
Fork for fitting to
vang gooseneck
Boom-end
Fork for fitting to
boom lug
Sheave for 2:1 to attach to
cascaded block and tackle
Primary line - 2:1
Secondary line
reeved through
cascaded system

4 Harken Vang-Master
Part
No. Description
Typical boat length
PCLO Pin center
length closed
PCLC - Pin center
length open Stroke
Pin
Ø
Mast/boom fitting
thickness*
ft m in mm in mm in mm in mm in mm
VM13240 Vang-Master 1 18 - 26 5.5 - 7.9 32 813 40 1016 8 203 3/8 10 1/4 6
VM24353 Vang-Master 2 18 - 26 5.5 - 7.9 43 1092 53 1346 10 254 3/8 10 1/4 6
VM33444 Vang-Master 3 25 - 36 7.6 - 11 34 864 44 1118 10 254 1/2 12.7 1/4 6
VM44656 Vang-Master 4 25 - 36 7.6 - 11 46 1168 56 1422 10 254 1/2 12.7 1/2 12
VM54860 Vang-Master 5 35 - 46 10.7 - 14 48 1219 60 1524 12 305 1/2 12.7 1/2 12
VM66274 Vang-Master 6 35 - 46 10.7 - 14 62 1575 74 1880 12 305 5/8 15.9 5/8 16
VM76274 Vang-Master 7 45 - 56 13.7 - 17.1 62 1575 74 1880 12 305 5/8 15.9 5/8 16
VM87385 Vang-Master 8 45 - 56 13.7 - 17.1 73 1854 85 2159 12 305 5/8 15.9 5/8 16
Standard Sizes - See next page for popular production boat applications.
Vang-Master rigid vangs are available for boats with vang fittings on the boom and mast partner. If your boat is not equipped with vang fittings on mast
and boom, or if fitting width or pin diameter will not fit jaw and pin sizes listed in the chart below, contact Harken for information.
Vang sizing
Vang-Master sizes are based on boat size and PCLC (pin center length closed).
PCLC - measure the distance between vang pins with boom pulled down.
PCLO (pin center length open) - Push boom up to the maximum desired height and measure the distance between vang pins.
Select size that fits your range from chart below.
VM13240
Part number code
Size
PCLC in inches
(pin center length closed)
PCLO in inches
(pin center length open)
Deck
PCLC
(Pin center
length closed)
PCLO
(Pin center
length open)
Blocks and line for purchase systems
Blocks and line are sold separately. Order block and line kits to build 4:1 or 6:1 mechanical advantage in
single- or double-ended configurations. These systems cascade the primary purchase to 8:1 or 12:1 in the
VM1 through VM6 vangs and 16:1 or 24:1 in the VM7 and VM8 vangs.
See block and tackle reeving instructions on pages 8 to 11.
*Mast/boom fitting thicknesses are
listed. Vang fork ends will fit these
tang widths.
Part
No. Block kit description Purchase Includes Use with
7500 4:1 Single-ended 40 mm Carbo 4:1 (1) 2655 fiddle, (1) 2658 fiddle, 6 mm line VM1, VM2, VM3
7501 4:1 Double-ended 40 mm Carbo 4:1 (1) 2638 double, (3) 2636 single, 6 mm line VM1, VM2, VM3
7502 6:1 Single-ended 40 mm Carbo 6:1 (1) 2640 triple, (1) 2613 triple, 6 mm line VM1, VM2, VM3
7503 6:1 Double-ended 40 mm Carbo 6:1 (1) 2640 triple, (1) 2638 double, (2) 2636 single, 6 mm line VM1, VM2, VM3
7504 4:1 Single-ended 57 mm Carbo 4:1 (1) 2621 fiddle, (1) 2676 fiddle, 8 mm line VM4, VM5, VM6
7505 4:1 Double-ended 57 mm Carbo 4:1 (1) 2602 double, (3) 2600 single, 8 mm line VM4, VM5, VM6
7506 6:1 Single-ended 57 mm Carbo 6:1 (1) 2604 triple, (1) 2630 triple, 8 mm line VM4, VM5, VM6
7507 6:1 Double-ended 57 mm Carbo 6:1 (1) 2604 triple, (1) 2602 double, (2) 2600 single, 8 mm line VM4, VM5, VM6
7508 4:1 Single-ended 75 mm Carbo 4:1 (1) 2690 fiddle, (1) 2697 fiddle, 10 mm line VM7, VM8
7509 4:1 Double-ended 75 mm Carbo 4:1 (1) 2662 double, (3) 2660 single, 10 mm line VM7, VM8
7510 6:1 Single-ended 75 mm Carbo 6:1 (1) 2664 triple, (1) 2686 triple, 10 mm line VM7, VM8
7511 6:1 Double-ended 75 mm Carbo 6:1 (1) 2664 triple, (1) 2662 double, (2) 2660 single, 10 mm line VM7, VM8
Introduction Ordering and Specifications
Installed
4:1 single ended
system

Harken Vang-Master 5
Existing Applications
Vang-Masters sized for production models are detailed below. Note: There may be rigging variation due to Class rule changes or equipment replacement.
VM-1 VM-2 VM-3 VM-4 VM-5 VM-5 continued VM-6 VM-7 VM-8
Moore 24 J/80 Cal 29 Catalina 34 Erickson 35 Farr 40 Catalina 400 Catalina 47 Jeanneau 57
Hot Foot 2 Cal 25 Catalina 27 Cal 28 Santana 35 Farr 400 Catalina 42 Santa Cruz 50 Santa Cruz 52
Ultimate 20 Ultimate 24 Erickson 27 Cal 27 Hunter 34 Kirby 25 Cal 40 Lidgard 45 Santa Cruz 70
Santana 20 B-25 Catalina 30 Islander Bahama 30 Hans Christian 33 Summit King 40 Cal 39 Morris 46 Andrews 70
Capri- 25 J/27 J/29 C & C 38 Farr Mumm 36 J/122 Tp- 52
J/24 Olson 30 J/30 Catalina 38 Summit 35 J/46 X- Yacht 512
Merit 25 Santana 3030 Evelyn 32 Catalina 36 Soto 40 X- Yacht 45 Swan 48
Melges 24 J/105 J/35 Benetau First 36.7 J/120 Swan 46
J/100 J/111 X- Yacht 38 Passport 54
J/133 J/40 Swan 44 Columbia 50
J/33 J/37 Swan 43 Dufour 520
Pearson 30 J/109 Cabr Rico 42 Hylas 54
Hunter 28 Express 37 Passport 42 Andrews 56
Tartan 10 Tartan 35 Moody 46
Cal 31 Valiant 42 Dufour 45
Ranger 33 Peterson 44 Hylas 42
Pearson 34 Benetau First 38 Cheoy Lee Offshore 48
Sabre 30 Bristol 35 Bristol 47
Hobbie 33 Grand Soleil 39 Wauquiex 46
Isladner 36 Island Packet 35 J/125
Antrim 27 Hinckley Bremuda 40 Dk 46
Soverel 33 Hallberg Rassy 42 Sydney 40
Flying Tiger F-10 Cabo Rico 38 Benetau First 40.7
J/99 Passport 40
Henderson 30 Sabere 42
Farr Mumm 30 Antrim 40
Melges 32 Cf 40
Ordering Custom Length Vang-Master Rigid Vangs
1. Boat Information
Boat type or model: ______________________________________________
Spar builder: ___________________________________________________
2. Vang Size
Boom details:
Length overall: __________________________________________________
E dimension: ___________________________________________________
Boom material and dimensions: ____________________________________
Is there a slot in the bottom of the boom? Yes  No 
Boom height from bottom of boom to deck at mastbase (H): _____________
Is there a vang fitting at mastbase? Yes  No 
If yes, is it articulating? Yes  No 
What is the pin size? _____________________________________________
Is there a vang fitting on boom? Yes  No 
If yes, what is the pin size? ________________________________________
PCLC (Pin center length closed): ___________________________________
PCLO (Pin center length open): ____________________________________
Mainsail details:
Sail area: ______________________________________________________
Does it have full battens? Yes  No 
Sail material: ___________________________________________________
3. Purchase System
See Harken catalog for standard purchase systems or order blocks separately to build your own system.
Introduction Ordering: Stock Applications and Custom Order Form

6 Harken Vang-Master
The optimal angle of the vang is 45 degrees. The lower the vang mast fitting can be on the mast, the less load on the fittings
and spars.
IMPORTANT! Vang angles that are more or less than 45 degrees will reduce the effectiveness of the vang and load fittings.
Use the main halyard to hold the boom horizontal and check the length and locations. Refer to the stroke length and plan on
setting the vang up so the sailing length is midway or little less than half way. Hold the Vang-Master in place at half stroke
and check the angle to see if it is close to 45 degrees. If it is not, you may need a shorter or longer vang. With boom parallel
with the waterline, the vang should be set as close to a 45 degree angle
as possible to give the best performance through its range of motion.
If you have existing fittings, check the fit of the Vang-Master fork fittings and
also check for good rotation.
45 Degrees
Optimal vang angle
Reeving block and tackle - See following pages for how to reeve
block and tackle (sold separately).
Use the main halyard to hold the boom horizontal.
Installing new mast fitting - Check fit of vang gooseneck to be sure it seats flat on the aft sides of the mast. Be sure to
mount the fitting right side up. If using an existing vang gooseneck, check to make sure the vang can angle into position
and rotate correctly.
Mark holes and use a center punch. Mount fitting using SS rivets or drill and tap method.
Installing new boom fitting - Check to see if the boom fitting has a fore-aft orientation; be sure to mount the fitting correctly.
If using an existing mast fitting, check to make sure the vang can angle into position and rotate correctly. Hold the boom up
so that it is at about mid-stroke or a little less. Check the vang angle to make sure it is about 45 degrees. Hold or clamp the
fitting in place and mark and center punch.
Installation
Installation Planning Installation and Installing
See reeving pages

Harken Vang-Master 7
Commisioning
Attach the vang to mast and boom fittings. Add air pressure using a
high quality bicycle pump with Schrader valve fitting. Remove cap and
use a pump capable of pumping more than 100 psi (690 kPa). The
amount of pressure will determine the boom angle and the return rate.
Maintenance
Harken equipment is designed for minimal maintenance. However, some upkeep is required to give the best service and
comply with the Harken limited warranty. Keep your equipment clean and free-running by frequently flushing with fresh
water. Periodically clean with mild detergent and water solution. Spin sheaves to distribute soap solution evenly. Flush with
fresh water.
The VM should not need rebuilding even over long periods. If it is not operational contact Vang-Master or Harken to discuss
possible rebuilding.
WARNING! The Vang-Master contains compressed air and may cause injury if service is attempted by non-specialized personnel.
Do not disassemble the Vang-Master unless you are an authorized Harken service center.
IMPORTANT! Exposure to some teak cleaners and other caustic solutions can result in discoloration of part and is not covered under
the Harken warranty. See www.harken.com/manuals or the Harken catalog.
Decommissioning
When removing the boom for winter storage or transport, DEPRESSURIZE the cylinder before removing or disconnecting the
vang. Remove cap and use a small screwdriver to press the canter valve post to let air out.
Schrader air valve
Tip: To make is easier to add air, use the main halyard to hold the boom
up about 10 degrees from the sailing position. When you think you have
enough pressure, ease off on the main halyard to check the boom angle.
Pull down on the end of the boom and check the return rate. If boom is
on the soft side, add more pressure. If there is too much pressure, use a
small screwdriver to press on the valve post to let air out.
Use halyard to lift boom while pumping air.
Installation Commissioning, Decommissioning and Maintenance

8 Harken Vang-Master
1
2
3
4
2655, 2621, 2690
Attached to primary 2:1 line
for 8:1 purchase
2658, 2676 2697
Attached to
vang cross bar
4:1 Reeving - 7500, 7504, 7508
Single ended cascaded system
Remove becket to attach eye. Line will
be spliced to 40 mm fiddle 2658.
Attached to cascaded 4:1 line for
16:1 purchase (VM7 and VM8)
Installation Reeving Blocks

Harken Vang-Master 9
3
1
2
4
Attached to
vang cross bar
2638, 2602, 2662
2636, 2600, 2660
(Three singles)
Led to cam cleats
(Sold separetely)
Attached to deck
4:1 Reeving - 7501, 7505, 7509
Double ended cascaded system
Attached to primary 2:1 line
for 8:1 purchase
Attached to cascaded 4:1 line
for a 16:1 (VM7 and VM8).
Installation Reeving Blocks

10 Harken Vang-Master
6:1 Reeving - 7502, 7506, 7510
Single ended cascaded system
2
3
5
6
6
5
1
4
2640, 2604, 2664
2642, 2630, 2686
Attached to
cross bar
1
Attached to primary 2:1 line
for 12:1 purchase
Attached to cascaded 4:1 line
for a 24:1 (VM7 and VM8).
Reeving diagram shown without block structure for clarity.
Installation Reeving Blocks
Remove becket to attach eye.
Line will be spliced to 40 mm
triple 2640.

Harken Vang-Master 11
3
1
4
6
5
5
2640, 2604, 2664
2
2638, 2602, 2662
2636, 2600, 2660
(Two singles)
Attached to
cross bar
Reeving diagram shown without block structure for clarity.
6:1 Reeving - 7503, 7507, 7511
Double ended cascaded system
Attached to primary 2:1 line
for 12:1 purchase
Attached to cascaded 4:1 line
for a 24:1 (VM7 and VM8).
1
Attached to deck
Led to cam cleats
(Sold separately)
Installation Reeving Blocks

Corporate Headquarters
N15W24983 Bluemound Rd., Pewaukee, WI 53072-4974 USA, Tel: [phone], Fax: [phone],
Web: www.harken.com, Online Catalog: www.harkenstore.com, Email: [email protected]
Harken Adriatik d.o.o.: Obala 107, 6320, Portoroz, Slovenia, Tel/Fax: [phone], Web: www.harken.si, Email: [email protected]
Harken Australia Pty, Ltd.: 1B Green Street, Brookvale, N.S.W. 2100, Australia, Tel: [phone], Fax: [phone],
Web: www.harken.com.au, Email: [email protected]
Harken France: ZA Port des Minimes, BP 3064, 17032, La Rochelle Cedex 1, France, Tel: [phone] • Fax: [phone],
Web: www.harken.fr, Email: [email protected]
Harken Italy S.p.A.: Via Marco Biagi, 14, 22070 , Limido Comasco (CO) Italy, Tel: [phone], Fax: [phone], Web: www.harken.it, Email: [email protected]
Harken New Zealand, Ltd.: 30-36 Fanshawe Street, P.O. Box 1951, Auckland 1001, New Zealand, Tel: [phone], Fax: [phone],
Web: www.harken.co.nz, Email: [email protected]
Harken Polska SP ZOO: ul. Rydygiera 8, budynek 3A, lokal 101, I piętro, 01-793, Warszawa, Poland, Tel: [phone], Fax: [phone],
Web: www.harken.pl, Email: [email protected]
Harken Sweden AB: Main Office and Harken Brandstore: Västmannagatan 81B, SE-113 26 Stockholm Sweden, Tel: [phone].\, Fax:[phone],
Mailing address: Harken Sweden AB, Box 64, SE -440 30 Marstrand, Email: [email protected]
Harken UK, Ltd.: Bearing House, Ampress Lane, Lymington, Hampshire S041 8LW, England, Tel: [phone], Fax: [phone],
Web: www.harken.co.uk., Email: [email protected]
Please visit: http://www.harken.com/dealers/dealers.php for an up-to-date list of Harken dealers and distributors
Warranty
Harken warrants that each Harken product, when properly used and maintained, will be free from defects in
material and workmanship from the date of receipt of the product by the final customer. Harken products are
covered by two different kinds of warranties, on the basis of the purchaser and use made of them.
For complete warranty or for information relating to a specific warranty concern, please refer to the following:
Harken Catalog, www.harken.com/manuals
Call or Email the Nearest Harken Distributor or
Harken Corporate Headquarters (Telephone/Email Addresses Below)
Please visit: http//www.harken.com/dealers/dealers.php
for an up-to-date list of Harken dealers and distributors Printed in USA 5384 V1 03/21