Using a headsail from a Pearson 33 on a Catalina 34

n0w0rries · #1 (**permalink**) 04-26-2011

My genoa is in sad shape (as previously mentioned). My boat came with a spare head sail. It appears to be from a Pearson 33, and is labeled "Light No 1". It's a North Sails made of NorLam.

How suitable is this sail for my cat34? It appears to be in like new condition... even though it looks like it was made in 85.

Mobnets · #2 (**permalink**) 04-27-2011

Pretty Close! As long as you don't have a Cat34 tall rig version

Pearson 33-2: I=43.5, J=12.67

Catalina 34: I=44.0, J=13.5

Somebody seems to have had what seems to be a logical plan for that sail on that boat.

BYW: You can easily check out sail dimensions for a huge database of sailboat models in the "Sail Specs" section on the Sailrite website.

Faster · #3 (**permalink**) 04-27-2011

Get a tape measure and measure your distance from tack to full hoist swivel (you have a furler, I believe) Compare that measurement to your Pearson sail. The luff should be a couple of inches shorter (at least) than your measurement to allow you to apply tension.

If the Pearson sail is full hoist (ie not modified to take the drum height into account) it may be a bit long. Not a big deal, though as it's a relatively inexpensive modification.

sailingfool · #4 (**permalink**) 04-27-2011

In addition to Faster's sage advice on luff length, you need to confirm whether the luff tape on the sail fits your furler extension. Too large and it wont feed, too small and it'll pull out under load.

If its not the correct tape, replacing it will run you several hundred dollars.

LouR · #5 (**permalink**) 06-02-2011

Do you have any interest in getting rid of the sail? I just bought a Pearson 33-2, and have to buy sails. I'd be interested in getting more info

n0w0rries · #6 (**permalink**) 06-03-2011

I might.. I'll send you a PM

n0w0rries · #7 (**permalink**) 06-05-2011

Nevermind... the sail delamed yesterday.

LouR · #8 (**permalink**) 06-08-2011

Sorry, couldn't reply sooner to your PM. That's a shame that it blew out. It could have worked out well for both us. Is the delaminated part something that can be patched/reinforced? I'll only be cruising with the boat anyway.

tommays · #9 (**permalink**) 06-08-2011

We went through a bunch of problems with North light ones until they gave up replacing them as they took dammage most every day as a normal tack would dammage the film