Vang Basics

[Stargazer3]

When I purchased my 2000 H410 it had a rope boom vang. I've since replaced it with a Forespar "Rodkicker" solid vang. The installer left the rope vang on it - and I'm wondering, "Why?"
Is there a reason why you need a rope vang AND a solid vang? I'd prefer to just get rid of the rope. Has anybody out there had any experiance with this issue? Thanks! Capt Bill on STARGAZER

 

[trainmanjess]

hello

not sure why he left the rope on attached.... mine is removeable... my blocks have snap shackle ends on them, so I can remove them easily... a rope vang can also double as a preventer...when I am sailing downwind, I use the vang as a preventer so I can sail wing on wing...

sincerely
Jess

 

[Jackdaw]

A rodkicker is the European name for what we call the boomkicker in the USA. It is a very good solution, but requires a soft vang to supply downward pressure. It is a very cost effective way to add solid vang capabilities to a boat that already has a soft vang. Like you.

 

[Chief RA]

Jackdaw: would it actually act like a topping lift only reversing the leverage principles? Kind of a fixed rest for the boom with no hold down capability. Seems you would still be wise to retain the topping lift too for your radar reflector and backup for aloft lines? Chief

 

[Jackdaw]

Jackdaw: would it actually act like a topping lift only reversing the leverage principles? Kind of a fixed rest for the boom with no hold down capability. Seems you would still be wise to retain the topping lift too for your radar reflector and backup for aloft lines? Chief

Chief,

Yes it does. Like in the picture below, the Rod(boom)kicker's rods 'lock-out' and hold the boom's weight. This is very nice for sail handling. Like any solid vang however, there are limits on how much weight it will support before bending down as designed. That's why while at dock we use our main halyard to support the boom by bringing to it to the boom end; you can see that in the picture as well.

 

[Chief RA]

Jackdaw: I have learned to respect your seamanship and consequent information you provide. Thanks, Chief

 

[Parsons]

I've used a Boomkicker for years on my H216, and have been very pleased with eliminating the topping lift (one less task to perform at the beginning and end of mainsail sets). Boomkickers only prevent downward boom movement, and provide steadily increased pressure as the boom is depressed. They allow unlimited upward movement, so you will need a normal rope vang to prevent boom lifting when the main sheet doesn't provide this, such as sailing on broad reaches or downwind.