Ace, If your shrouds have thimbles the extenders should work. I think they are a good safety item to have, but I know a number of people don't trust the hollow quick release pins that came on mine. I plan on switching to spring loaded toggle pins if I reinstall the extenders. I have never used the extenders, but have had them recommended by other 17 sailors. As I understand it, the key is to loosen the shroud, right the boat bows into the wind, and then while hooked onto/or pulling on the trap wire, tighten the shroud. This avoids the falling mast routine. Good luck! Righting poles, and bags are good too!