Jury Rig

A temporary arrangement assembled to replace or support damaged or failed equipment.

A jury rig uses the materials and equipment available aboard to restore a necessary function after damage. The expression originated in sailing practice, particularly for a temporary mast and rig, but it now applies to improvised steering, pumping, structural support and many other systems.

Its purpose is to manage an emergency or allow the vessel to reach assistance, not to reproduce the full strength or reliability of the original installation. Loads, chafe, movement and the consequences of another failure must be monitored, and a proper repair should be made as soon as practicable.