Thanks, folks, for the ideas or in Ed's case, idears.

FYI, I previously replaced both blocks at top and bottom of the mast to make it easier. I plan to try a smaller halyard and to follow the instructions on McLube (who reads those anyway?), and to loosen the battens slightly.

When dropping the main, it comes down more easily than hoisting, but it does drag. I'm hoping a smaller halyard help.

Again, thanx.

John