Getting the Sail Tracks Straight

[Joe Nelson CS#35]

I put multi piece sail tracks on my CS20 multi diameter spars. The mizzen isn't bad, but the main still gets hung up while hoisting and well, in both directions. I believe that the tracks are not straight. I used the method of washers under the track and rivets. Looking for some ideas or even just one idea to locate where the low spots are. I don't have anything 20' long to use as a straight edge. I've worked on it a bit. Drilled out the worst offenders and added more washers. But it is not close enough for my liking.

Just for interest, I am going to start using my boat to salmon fish on the Columbia River. Leave the spars at home and use the kicker. The centerboard actually really helps slow trolling speeds in wind. Keeps her tracking straight while steering with the rudder. I've got that 4 horse Yamaha. She really runs nice on the boat!

[Hirilonde]

Looking for some ideas or even just one idea to locate where the low spots are. I don't have anything 20' long to use as a straight edge.

String?

[PAR]

Snap a chalk line and lay the track on it so the holes all show chalk through them.

Also where the sections of track join, file a "V" shaped (or round) groove on the centerline, half a hole in each track end, then use this hole for an extra fastener (rivet or screw). This simple little trick will keep the tracks aligned, preventing jams at the section joints. It also helps to round over the outside corners at this intersection, again to prevent jams.