hard dodger vs. soft

[Faster]

Keep in mind that in reality, even 'soft' dodgers rarely get folded down - most now have lexan windows that don't like to bend that much.... so I suggest the windage issue is a non-issue in the decision making in many cases.

[imagine2frolic]

Not to disrespect your thoughts Faster, but it can be a big issue. As I typed it is rare, but it does happen.

On the hook we got a quick squall come through on the Halifax river. It topped out at 60 knots. Unfortunately the frame wasn't through bolted by the builder. This squall only lasted 20 minutes, but it tore the front of the frame loose from the house. Now we had a flat panel at about 30 degrees to the wind. Only the boom was holding it down.

Unfortunately the builder ran the frame through the cloth. I had to cut the bimini to shreds. The new bimini is now laced, and the lacing can be cut to save the bimini. The frame is now through bolted, so it will be nearly impossible to be pulled loose. It was windage that broke it loose while throwing in some bad design flaws.......i2f

[Faster]

Originally Posted by imagine2frolic

Not to disrespect ....

No worries, i2f... there are always exceptions. In an area subject to squalls and really strong winds I can see you'd want to be able to get things off in a hurry.. but it might be an interesting poll to see how many "soft" dodgers are routinely folded down (or, for that matter how many dodger frames are throughbolted.....)

Anyhow, good points..

[cormeum]

Originally Posted by Faster

.. but it might be an interesting poll to see how many "soft" dodgers are routinely folded down (or, for that matter how many dodger frames are throughbolted.....)

Yes and yes. We spec'd zippers so the canvas can be quickly removed from the frame as well.

[Waltthesalt]

Keep in mind that invariably you will be holding on to the dodger when going forward from the cockpit. What you grab on to needs to be reliable and sturdy.

[imagine2frolic]

In 18 years on my mono. I folded the dodger down maybe 5 times. To rebuild the traveller, remove the motor a couple of times, pull the mast, rebed the snaps, and restitch the dodger itself.

The front window unzipped, and rolled up to cut down on windage, and cool off the cockpit in Mexico. I typed rare, because it is rare, but when you need to get rid of it. It can be a real blessing when you can.......i2f