Tramp question for Graham

[dstgean]

Graham,

I'm about to launch the Hawaiian outrigger next weekend and was thinking about how to add tramps in a reasonable manner. Since the crossbeams are 10'3" apart, how stout should the fore and aft beams be considering I'd like a tight tramp surface with the ability to have two big guys out there. I talked to a tramp manufacturer who suggested using mast sections to use a luff groove and lace it with slugs on the opposite side.

I was thinking of having the tramp have a few sleeves. Perhaps have a sleeve over the aft aka with and a sleeve one the outboard end with a second very short sleeve for the foreward end to tension it fore/aft. Teh inboard end could be tensioned over a second fore/aft beam.

The questions I have for you are:

1. How strong do the beams fore/aft need to be to tension the tramps and support two big guys? Should I make them out of wood, aluminum tube, or mast sections? I'd rather not spend as much on the tramps as the whole boat.... What kind of aluminum section would I need to handle that kind of span with that weight.

2. Sailrite has 78" tramp fabric for 13 buck a yard. Could I sew it with a regular sewing maching, have a custom tramp manufactured, or have an awning company sew to my design?

3. How much room on the inboard end do you think I need to be able to paddle?

Dan

[Designer]

Dan,

As there too many details and permutations, it might be better if you call me.