i have recently bought 3528. seems to be in order. however, i am struggling to understand how the lever at the front of the boat works (probably because i am a simple fireball crew) once the jib is up and the lowers are attached. is there a "zero" position for it and also which bit do i tighten first?

I think you  may be referring to the lever under the foredeck.  This is a "Jacko special" that allows the rig to fall forward off wind without having to adjust anythiing.  When you come on the wind the mainsheet pulls the whole rig back.  That was the theory anyway.  Jacko has it on his boat so give him a ring 01268 710111 and I am sure he will explaain all.  Good luck!

That sounds like Jacko's one string rake adjustment system.

Zero means that the mast is bolt upright.

The lever should enable you to rake the mast back maintaining the tensions on lowers and shrouds.

Dave Fowler or the masterbuilder himself should be able to tell you more

On the other hand, if there is a hole and tang in the end it is used for opening beer bottles. A Fireball crew may find it works on Coca-cola too, but this isn't done in Merlins.

ok thanks. i will go and see alan, as i believe chipstow boats is round the corner from me. and as for cola, i would rather drink a pint of the blackwater! though it is useful for cleaning purposes!