Asymmetrical Spinnaker Tacker

[megsmom]

I''m looking for some design tips for a device that moves around the furling system on the head stay, allowing the tack of the Gennacker to move up and down. The system that I saw was made of beads threaded on a bungy-like chord with a snap shackle. And, I guess the thing has a line (like a lazy-sheet) that gets cleated down on the foredeck.

[tommyt]

Just spent the weekend at Strictly Sail looking for ASYM information. I have seen the bead devise advertised somewhere, but can''t find it currently.
In talking to a lot of people at the show, both in seminars and friends on the floor, ATN was far and away the winner in recommendations. Their Tacker and Sleeve got high marks.

I think the web address is atninc.com if you are interested.

[raybies]

A good refernce for the type of system you describe, and cruising kites generally, can be found at http://www.neilprydesails.com/infoframe.htm

I had my rigger make a up a wire loop of parrell beads which simply attaches to the tack of the sail with a snap shackle. The loop then runs up and down the furled headsail quite freely. The beads are a standard item from Harken used for rope stops (easy and cheap).
I have rigged a downhaul to allow the height of the tack to be adjusted. This passes through a simple block and cleat system spring mounted off the top of my anchor frame. I have positioned the cleat forward (rather than back at the cockpit) because I like to have someone up front managing the launch, retrieve and gybes - despite having a dousing sock (a must). I''d be happy to take a digital photo of the system next weekend and send it to you if you can get an email address to me.

Now, can someone suggest a foolproof way of controlling the long lazy sheet (which runs outside of the stays) during a gybe. I haven''t done it yet but I''m sure one day it will end up around the keel.
Ray (Sydney Australia)

[splitmind]

Consider the use of polypropelene sheets. They float, and will stay on the waters surface. Our rigger suggested it to us and it works great.

[hamiam]

you are talking about "the tacker" from atn inc. check atninc.com

[Irwin32]

I have the tacker from ATN and feel it does a good job in keeping the tack under control. The bead thing would, I am sure, work well, too. 6 of one a half a dozen of the other is the way I see it.