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Just ordered a new main for my Catalina 28. Based on an earlier thread I decided to go for the loose foot.
My read is that the out haul will have more impact on sail shape without a bolt rope, which got me wondering about the boom vang, which got me to thinking about is there an advantage to a solid vang. That got me thinking maybe I don't need the topping lift.
Does the loose foot change things here, or it is just a matter or preference?
To my knowlege, Separate issues. I think you'll love the loose footed main.
I switched a few years ago, makes a world of difference, especially in light air. imo.
If you get a rigid vang that can support the weight of the boom, then you can consider removing the topping lift. It's my preference as it eliminates what is a) a source of chafe on the mainsail leech, and b) another 'step' in setting and dousing sail (release on hoist and reset before dousing - not a biggie, but...)
We store the main halyard at the end of the boom when the sail's down, so any concerns about people leaning on the boom, kids climbing around etc are alleviated by this 'temporary' topping lift.
There is, of course, a cost - these vangs are not cheap, though some versions like the 'boomkicker' are simple, effective and less money though you do still need a conventional rope-and-tackle vang too. The Gerhauer is highly recommended and reasonably priced - and a lot of their gear is probably already on your Catalina.
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