Battens

[JungleJetJock]

On my sail I have 2 full battens at the top and some partials down lower. The batten pockets close via velcro. It seems when it gets extra windy I lose the lower (5.5 ft long) full batten. Last night I was out and a storm blew up. Since it was dark I didn't notice the missing batten but this morning when I went out it was clearly not there. A few weeks ago I had the same problem. Any suggestions on how to make sure I don't keep buying new battens other than closing the pocket, which was closed and held the batten on earlier sails. They aren't expensive but the price adds up.

 

[JungleJetJock]

Thanks

I really like that idea. I think I will do it when I get around to getting a replacement batten, again. It seems like the velcro closure was the main cuprit on mine and this should do nicely without sealing it up forever.

 

[LoriPetersen]

Bolts + fittings

My sailmaker was repairing the worn tension straps and suggested new front end fittings ("A303 fittings"), they look a lot like the pics John posted, and I got 4 installed for $25 each. These also came with heavy-duty metal track lugs. This not only keep you from losing the batton, but also reduces the chafe on the tension straps (velcro), AND helps the sail shape at the luff. No picture, sorry, but I did find what looks like the product on this link below.-Lori