Dogdad Posted August 19, 2008 Posted August 19, 2008 http://www.epoxyworks.com/16/index16.html, "Evolving the sailing canoe rig for cruising". Probably more complex than needed for dinghy duty, but gives a wide adjustment range(small kids to large adults?), and does break down compactly. I've found the back issues of Epoxyworks to be a great resource for ideas about working with epoxy and working on boats. Quote
Howard Posted August 20, 2008 Posted August 20, 2008 As with most things boats, form follows function. I think the Spindrift rig was designed with it's primary purpose for speed and racing. It does that very well. But I agree, it's not simple to setup each time, nor is it easy to do on the water. My biggest concern is the only way to douse all sail is to drop the mast. As rigged, if caught in a blow, it could get interesting, but at the same time, I don't remember reading any obituaries caused by this. If the goal is sail power to get around an anchorage or from an anchorage to a distant dock, there probably are less complicated alternatives. A balanced lug rig comes to mind. The rig you mention is another, although it doesn't look all that simple to rig either. For this use, simple is the key objective, knowing you are giving up a lot in terms of performance. To row or not to row.....that is the question. : Quote
Howard Posted August 20, 2008 Posted August 20, 2008 BTW, down below on the link referenced at the top of this thread is mention of using epoxy to glue the new synthetic deck lumber. I was of the opinion you couldn't use epoxy to glue TREX and similar products. If so, is this an option for keels? Quote
Designer Posted August 20, 2008 Posted August 20, 2008 We have been using a zipper on the sleeve on the Spindrift sails for a while now with a built-in reef. This allows the sail to be raised and lowered as well as reefed on the water. It works very well, there is a webbing tab that goes across the zip, top and bottom which carries the sheer load. This has been used for many years on beach cat jib luffs and has proven very reliable. Of course the Zipper and the reef costs another $40.00. Quote
Howard Posted August 20, 2008 Posted August 20, 2008 The zip option sounds good. My sail has the single reef, but I don't remember the zip feature being offered when I ordered my sail.....about 3 years ago. Knowing my intended use, it would be a good way to go. I had thought of adding some grommets to the existing sleeve and lace it on....assuming the sleeves would fold to allow it. Whatever it takes to be able to leave the rig up and ready, but be able to douse the sail quickly while still on the water. An abundance of caution tempered by memories of going swimming when I hadn't planned to! Quote
Hirilonde Posted August 22, 2008 Posted August 22, 2008 The zip option sounds good. My sail has the single reef, but I don't remember the zip feature being offered when I ordered my sail..... Hmmm, same here, but 2 years ago. Do you stock such zippers Graham? Or can you recommend one to buy? I would like to add one to my S9. I really like the simplicity of the luff sleeve, and it sure lends to great sail shape. I would however like to lower my sail at the dinghy dock or when I return to my boat from shore while cruising. It would be just plain convenient. I have just returned from a 9 day cruise. I thoroughly enjoyed sailing my S9 in Cuttyhunk, Vineyard Haven and Block Island harbors. It is one of the most enjoyable aspects of cruising for me. Now if I could just lower my sail between jaunts........ Quote
Designer Posted August 25, 2008 Posted August 25, 2008 No I don't stock the Zippers but Sailrite does. Quote
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.