Adding a traveler to a 1977 Hunter 25

[Tom Teagle]

My 1977 Hunter 25 does not have a traveler. The mainsheet is attached to the deck using a small eyestrap screwed into the lip above the cockpit between the aft stay and the tiller post. The other end of the mainsheet is attached to the end of the boom. I do not know if this is the result of a modification made by the previous owner, or if it came this way from the factory. I do have reason to believe the stern was damaged and repaired at some point. Regardless, that's what I have. I want to add a traveler. Any recommendations as to where I should position it? My options seem to be either 1) along the cockpit lip (which includes both a horizontal and vertical curve)2) running from the port to starboard seats directly aft of the companionway, or 3) mounting it on top of the cabin using some sort of bridge. the later two options will require I reposition the mainsheet on the boom.Which of these will give me the best results?Any ideas would be appreciated.

 

[Jim]

H25 traveler

Stock unit, I believe, is mid boom sheeting with a fiddle block with cam cleat attached from a mid boom bail to a car attached to a track that runs along the step into the companionway. Nico Fico pin stops secure the car. Although the mid boom can be a PIA, I think end boom sheeting would be a major PIA. Any of the big makers of traveler systems should be able to come up with a system to fit your boat. Pin stops are ok for kick back sailors , but I wouldn't race with them. Regards.

 

[Jim]

Traveler

End boom sheeting in the cockpit of this boat will make even the most controlled jibe way too dramatic. An accidental jibe could be deadly with an end boom rig. A bridge over the companionway will be inefficient and just give you another place to bump your head. I would try to find a stock unit and improve from there. Regards again.

 

[Tom Teagle]

Stock traveler on a 1977 Hunter 25

Thanks Jim. I was leaning in the direction of a track at the companionway. Nothing else makes much sense.I know slightly newer Hunter 25's were rigged as you suggested with the track placed just aft of the companionway. Does anybody know if the 1977 Hunter 25 came that way? Maybe as an option? It's clear mine did not. There are no signs of there every having been a track there.As stupid as it may sound there may not have been any kind of traveler system on my 1977 from the factory at all. Unless later damage and repairs obscured any sign of one on the stern.

 

[Jim]

Big Mo?

Jim, what is the Big Mo reference? Just curious, my brother is known as Mo and Big Mo and also lives on Barnegat Bay. Big Mo? Thanks, jim