[Rhodes22-list] Problem with Main Sail shackle with screw pin

[Mrbabs]

Hello All

Just splashed the new boat this weekend and ran into a problem. We are
totally new to sailing so please forgive the non-sailing lingo.

While tacking, the main sail block & tackle arrangement departed the
traveler bar, flew past my face following the boom. While trying not to fall
overboard and yelling appropriate sailing cuss words, I found a small
shackle and screw pin on the floor of the cockpit. With limited ability to
steer it was very difficult to re-attach the block & tackle with the mail
sail and boom flying around.

So my question - why the heck is such an important piece of hardware
attached to the traveler with a screw pin that can fall out and wreak havoc? 
Is this normal? Should I replace this with a shackle containing a locking
pin or am I just adding Locktight to the screw threads? 

I feel like an idiot for asking, but is there any other hardware that can
come undone so quickly?  Does anyone have a "pre-flight" hardware inspection
list they use before shoving off?

If the shackle and or pin had not landed in the cockpit, I don't think I
couldn't have made it home. Unless you're going to suggest a MacGyver
maneuver using a winch!

Thanks!



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