Bowsprit on Hunter 35.5/36

Dec 27, 2005
500
Hunter 36 Chicago
Thinking about installing a bowsprit on my H36 this winter (unfortunately not far off here in Chicago). Has anyone had experience doing this project on an H35.5/H36?
 
Mar 20, 2004
1,746
Hunter 356 and 216 Portland, ME
Ken,
you should be looking at the 356, not the 35.5..
The problem we both have is that to support the sprit it has to be mounted across the anchor locker. Selden and forespar both make kits for a removable sprit that will work, but you have to remove and stow it for anchoring.
I've looked at the installs, but I fly my chute from a block (for the guy) on the forward end of the anchor roller and it works great - the sprit kits only gain you about 1-1 1/2 ft more extension, and I'm not sure it's worth it
 
Dec 27, 2005
500
Hunter 36 Chicago
Ken, you should be looking at the 356, not the 35.5.. The problem we both have is that to support the sprit it has to be mounted across the anchor locker. Selden and forespar both make kits for a removable sprit that will work, but you have to remove and stow it for anchoring. I've looked at the installs, but I fly my chute from a block (for the guy) on the forward end of the anchor roller and it works great - the sprit kits only gain you about 1-1 1/2 ft more extension, and I'm not sure it's worth it
Thanks chuckwayne. That's good info! Was wondering if that was an option to use the anchor roller.
 
Jul 27, 2013
298
Hunter 37.5 1065 Rock Hall, MD
Chuck,

Do you have a bob stay to support the load on the anchor roller? Also, do think your performance is better than using an ATN tracker on the furled jib?

Thanks,
Ben
 
Mar 20, 2004
1,746
Hunter 356 and 216 Portland, ME
Ken, Bob,
the anchor roller assembly is well bolted into the stem and hasn't shown any issues in 13 years... If you were further extended ahead of the bow, like with a longer sprit you'd have more leverage on the roller and might need something like a bobstay to carry the load but I don't think it's needed with just the roller. FYI, I fly a waay oversize Assym chute (1300 sq ft vs the more common 800-900 sq ft cruising chute)and have flown it in up to 25kts without any issues.
As to Ben's other question, I've never been convinced that the ATN tacker does much to improve performance. My guy is led aft on the port rail for control from the cockpit. going downwind, easing the guy lets the sail fly forward and to windward to better capture clear air. reaching, tightening the guy flattens the luff for better on the wind performance. I also have a mylar/pentex code zero that can sail well in light air on a close reach with the luff tight. I've never had a problem jibing either sail.