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Old 09-02-2007
sailordave sailordave is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by saltypat View Post

we boat on the Chesapeake, so I don't anticipate ever using more than the first set of reefing points.

I am going to replace the line- I see no reason why it should be any bigger than the halyard, and I am wondering if I could go smaller than the halyard? (I think it is a reefing line which should be permamently attached above the clew to the reef so it is ready for use)

Any advice welcome, and thank you---- saltypat

Well.... I have lost track of how many times I have been double reefed on Chesapeake Bay in a variety of boats from 30' to 44'...
You definitely want this capability.

Lots of good advice here. I will add that depending on the shape of your mainsail, your second reef line MAY need a cheek block on the side of the boom to create the proper angle of pull prior to going aft to the sheave.

IE, the reefing line will be tied around the boom directly below the second reef cringle, goes up to the cringle, through, and down to a cheek block located just aft of where the cringle would rest on the boom, THEN aft to the sheave to pass through the boom. Reason is as you first tension the reefing line you want it to pull DOWN and as the cringle approaches the boom you want more of an aftward pull to keep tension as an outhaul would.

I'm relatively "local" to the Bay; depending on where you are I could take a look and maybe do some heavy weather sailing w/ you!
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