Headsail reefing (slack turns)

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Peter Booker - Sun 20 Apr 2008 11:24:34 My Manta is presently moored on Windermere and I notice a few others on the lake all appear to have the same roller headsail system. I presume this was a standard fit?
Problem I have is that on occassions the line leading aft from the roller - if allowed to slacken can cause a turn to drop off the roller. This has the result that there is now a stray turn around the forestay which being much smaller in diameter to the roller causes it to jam when you want to reduce sail. This has created a few interesting moments where I have considered free fall parachuting may be a safer port!
Has anyone any modifications they can share to prevent this happening or do I need to replace the line with something a bit more supple?

Many thanks

Peter

Replies

k knox - Tue 17 Jun 2008 22:39:31 hi
i am having exactly the same problem with the cord dropping off the drum at the front. and like you have had some hairy experiences trying to put the sail away in a hurry. i think any owners having problems should write to the manufacturers en masse to see if they have a solution.
keith

peter booker - Sat 21 Jun 2008 11:38:48 Keith,

Glad to hear it's not just me! I replaced the rope for a smaller diameter softer one and had ome success but not total. I think the only way to deal with thi is to keep tension on the line at all times whether slacking or our hauling in.
I doubt the manufacturer is still making this bit of kit but have thought that if some sort of cylindrical guard could be attached to the deck fitting allowing the spool to rotate within thi may solve the problem. Don't think my DIY skills are really up to that though.
Anyone having any other suggestions - would love to hear from them.

Peter

Barry Stevens - Sat 21 Jun 2008 22:23:12 you could pass the reefing line through a small block attached to the gaurd rail with bungee cord to keep tension on the line.

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