Windtherapy wrote:Ya I am just going to order a new main and jib. I'll install a downhaul and figure out the reef and outhaul.
If you are getting a new set of sails anyway, then you can ask for reef points to be put in. Each set needs a dedicated reef line, so if you are getting two sets put in, you'll need to rig two reef lines. For comparison, my sails only have a single set of reef points, but I'm usually not going on extended cruises, so a single reef is enough to deal with winds that turn out slightly stronger than I'm prepared to handle with a full sail.
For really long cruises, some people put in three. But that almost makes sense only if you sail in somewhat protected waters (where wave heights are limited) and if you can count on running downwind most of the time.
Outhaul:
The image shows the outhaul (red line) with the outhaul not tight.
A double micro block lashed to the end of the boom fitting allows a purchase. Originally, I had lashed a single block to the sail grommet, but with two blocks there was not enough space when I tried to pull the outhaul tight. Instead of using a block, I lead the outhaul trough the grommet. A bit more friction, but works pretty well.
Following a suggestion by K.C., I put a V cleat on the side of the boom. Since I've taken the picture, I've re-rigged with a longer line that reaches past the V-cleat all the way to the front. The advantage of that is that I can grab the outhaul anywhere along that stretch to adjust it. However, it tends to dangle a bit and get in the way - so it needs a bit of bungee (thin shock cord) on the far end to take up the slack. (Not shown).
Reef lines need a bit more installation. You should look up the older posts, many have diagrams. Best system, for my money is a single line at the end (to pull the reef point down - and out) and a reef hook at the front. My setup is a bit different, but I've sailed on a number of boats with "hook and line" and it works really well. Good winter project, but do read up on where to place the hardware.
You mention a downhaul? That, I believe wasn't mentioned earlier in this thread. So, you mean a jib downhaul?
I've been leery about installing "yet another line" on my boat. Esp. since I've not been in a situation where I felt I really "needed" one. I would be tempted to design one that's part of the sail, when not in use. For example, leading a line from the head of the sail (parallel to the forestay) to the tack, there through the track grommet and along the foot to the clew of the sail (tied to the clew grommet).
When it comes time to lower the jib, let go the halyard, pull tight the jib sheet until I can reach the clew, grab the downhaul and help the head of the sail come down. To fix in the down position, cleat the downhaul off on the mast somewhere. Not tried this, but I think it should work.
Advantage in my view, as long as you barely ever need this, a downhaul rigged like this stays out of the way and doesn't require any extra steps when rigging/unrigging the sails. Unlike others, I'm definitely comfortable standing in the front of the cockpit (and have the reach to easily get to the bottom of the mast); so I have no need to lead any lines to the cuddy edge, etc.