26x Lazy Jacks and Mainsail

[KevS]

I have lazy jacks currently supporting the boom, with no topping lift. On raising the mainsail the lazy jacks continue to take the boom weight therefore obstruct the set of the sail. The sails stops around 30cm from top of mast is this correct. Should I be releasing the lazy jacks or should the sail take the weight off them automatically.

 

[Steve Paul]

Topping lift

The sail should hold the weight of the boom. Get yourself a topping lift to support the boom otherwise and pull the lazy jacks away and toward the mast. Tie them off ahead of the sail or you will suffer performance. My lazy jacks were held at the boom by two j hooks, one each side of the boom.I replaced my lazy jacks with a sail catcher pouch that is actually my sail cover all in one. I still have lazy jacks but have mounted them so the are partway out on my spreaders and do not affect sail shape. I must say I also have a full battened main sail which helps in this instance. Hope this advice helps you.Indycanvas calls it the "easy furl" look under products/covers/mainsail/easy furl.http://www.indycanvas.com/Steve P.

 

[Ed13944]

Resease them

I slacken the lazy jacks except when the sail is about to be lowered. This allows the sail its full action when sailing, supports the boom temporarily and helps stow the sail.

 

[KevS]

Thanks Steve

Steve, I have the sail catcher pouch also , the support of which acts as lazy jacks. From the Indy canvas advert it looks as though these stay up in place even though they hinder the set of the sail, is this correct or do I need to find a way to release these once the sail is up and then reconnect before lowering the sail. hanks to you and Ed for the response

 

[Steve Paul]

'pends on your layout

My lazy jacks, furler support were tight when I first installed them so I moved the upward attachment out about a foot on each spreader and that seems to work for me. Pulling these in would get to be tiresome I think. With the full batten sail shape isn't affected that much anyway.Steve P.