[ericb760]

Went sailing today in moderate winds (10-12 knots). Had a light sail and nothing broke, and nothing appeared to be stressed to anything beyond normal. Until I got back to the slip. While securing the boat, I found that my longest batten was split. It's fibreglass, and it broke right down the middle. It's still in one piece, just broken. Can I repair this?

 

[Stumble]

Which edge broke?

It is generally possible to repair them, but it isn't a good idea long term. Battens are designed around a certain stiffness level, and it's pretty much impossible to repair them back to what they were. Short term a little fiberglass and epoxy will hold it together.

 

[SHNOOL]

Buy a new batten, last thing you want is it to break completely and poke through your sail. They are pretty cheap, measure it, length and width, and (if you can) thickness, and buy a new one.

I'll add that if you intend to keep sailing, you are better off removing the broken batten than using it broken. Sail shape will stink either way.

 

[MarkofSeaLife]

Try it without the batten.

 

[tempest]

I lost one last year... sailed the rest of the season without it, fine. I think the replacement cost me $75. Cut it to size and installed it this season.

 

[Multihullgirl]

Check at Bainbridge for a match, get the item number, and then get in touch with Sailmaker's Supply for a replacement

Bainbridge International > Hardware
Sunbrella, Marine Canvas, Fabrics, Hardware and Supplies - Sailmaker's Supply

 

[capt jgwinks]

In the old days we made them out of wooden yard sticks. I still keep a couple on board to make temporary repairs. Just cut to length and sand the edge. Will work well enough until you can get a proper one.