Boom to Stern Traveler

[kwaltersmi]

Forgive my ignorance, but what is the name of the piece of rigging that runs from the end of the boom to a traveler on the stern of a sailboat? It's part of the mainsheet, but does it have a specific name in that configuration? I need to get a new one for my boat and I'm not sure what to look for.

Thanks!

[TrueBlue]

The mainsheet tackle.

[SEMIJim]

Originally Posted by kwaltersmi

Forgive my ignorance, but what is the name of the piece of rigging that runs from the end of the boom to a traveler on the stern of a sailboat? It's part of the mainsheet, but does it have a specific name in that configuration?

Well, the little pinned wheels the sheet runs around are called sheaves. The frames in which they're mounted are called blocks, as are the assemblies. When one-or-more blocks are combined with line (such as your mainsheet), the assembly is referred-to as tackle.

Originally Posted by kwaltersmi

I need to get a new one for my boat and I'm not sure what to look for.

It isn't quite that simple. Do you need one or both new blocks, new line, or all of the above? Are you simply looking to replace what you have because something broke or is obviously worn/degraded, are you trying to increase your purchase, increase the speed with which you can adjust your mainsheet, increase load-handling capability, add fine-tuning capability, or some combination of these?

What kind of boat do you have? At what point on the boom is your mainsheet tackle attached? (Sounds like end-boom sheeting, from what you've said so far.)

Originally Posted by kwaltersmi

Thanks!

You're welcome!

Jim

[kwaltersmi]

Jim - Thanks for the help! Yes, my boat (Helms 25) does indeed have end-boom sheeting. This is a project boat and the mainsheet was missing entirely when I purchased it. Therefore, I need the full assembly (new blocks, line, etc.) and am trying to make sure I get something that works with the current boom and stern traveler system. Maybe I can take some pictures to allow y'all to give me better help.

I'm considering the Harken mainsheet trimming system for small boats in this link: http://mauriprosailing.com/Merchant2...de=HARMAINSYS1. I'm not sure if that will do the trick or not. And I'm not sure if there's a simpler, more cost effect method.

[RAGTIMEDON]

Depends upon your boat and your experience! First time my wife and I sailed (on a borrowed Super Porpoise) the mailsheet was attatched to my arm. That explains why a gust of wind caused me to go swimming!

[TrueBlue]

If on a budget (who isn't?), I would look into Garhauer for excellent value and quality. Contact sales and they will put together what you need - for very lttle compared to Harken, Schaefer, Lewmar, etc.
http://garhauermarine.com/

[sailingdog]

I'd second the recommendation for Garhauer. BTW, this thread is giving me a sense of deja vú

[CharlieCobra]

I installed the Harken small boat system on my Venture 21, made a helluva difference. Good solid gear, if a bit pricey.

[SEMIJim]

Originally Posted by sailingdog

BTW, this thread is giving me a sense of deja vú

Can't imagine why


kwaltersmi, you might want to read this recent thread, started by yours truly: Unmanageable Mainsheet. A lot of questions and answers that pertain to your decision will be in there.

FWIW: If money's not an object, The Admiral and I really liked the fit, finish and feel of the 60mm Lewmar fiddle blocks Alex recommended first. We finally went with the Harken Carbo triple blocks for more purchase, for the SWL (safe working load) and for the breaking strength. For your boat, much smaller everything, I think I'd go for those Lewmar's . But do the load calculations. The Harken site has a load caculator.

Jim

[tenuki]

Well crap, you did have to send me off to the Garhauer site... my boat budget just cried out in agony.