Postitioning headsail fairlead

[Slayer]

I read this in an ASA magazine and can't really conceptualize it:

"The fairlead default position is on a line extended from a point at the center of the headsail luff through the clew. Where that line strikes the deck is where the fairlead is placed during average wind for the sail in question."

I have to admit, I understand things better with pictures. But I cannot see there being a fixed position because the clew moves with the fairlead. Can someone clairfy this for me?

[Faster]

This is simply giving you a starting point for your sheet lead positions, you could do it on a profile drawing of your sailplan.

Draw a line from the midpoint of the forestay (or the luff of the sail if it's not full hoist) through the point of the clew and carry on to the deck. Where the line hits the deck is where the car should be placed for starters.

Then, while sailing you'd move it fore and aft as required to get the ALL telltales to 'break' at the same moment. If the upper set stalls/breaks first, move car fwd and try again (and vice versa, of course) Ultimately when you pinch up towards a luffing heading all the telltales should react at the same time.

As you say, though, the clew is not always in the same spot so bearing off to a close or beam reach will required readjustment of the position - that's why race boats and hi perf cruisers have the ability to adjust these leads from the cockpit, under load.

[sailingdog]

See this:


In stronger winds, you'd move the fairlead aft, to flatten the foot and allow the leech to twist... in lighter winds, you'd move it forward, to allow the sail to take on a fuller draft and close the leech.

[jackdale]

Faster and SD have that right, as usual. There might also be some reinforcing webbing that may form a a straight line with your genoa sheet.

Also

Look for a similar shape on the leech and foot.

If you have telltales, they should all be parallel and should break simultaneously.

As you sail further downwind the car should be moved forward.