Changing back to roller reefing jib on Hunter 25

[Chris Lydle]

I recently bought a 3-rd hand 1981 Hunter 25. Apparently a previous owner was an avid race, because there are bags of Kevlar sales everywhere I turn. Boxed up is what appears to be a complete Hood roller furling system with full-length forestay, and one of the bagged sails is a big jib with the sail-cover edges. On the existing forestay is a twin-channel headstay molding and one of those twin-ball feeding guides.I want to restore the furling system and guess it's necessary to change out the stays. How do I do this? Is there a way to do it without taking down the mast? If anyone has a set of the original instructions for rigging that system I'd appreciate a copy.

 

[Steve O.]

Can be done

You shouldn't have to replace your forestay. The Hood system is made to install over the existing forestay with no modification. You will have to remove the existing foil from the headstay. Use your jib halyard as a temporary forestay while you install the RF. Contact Hood at www.pompanette.com because you will need a supply of special hammer rivets and perhaps some extrusion bearings. Hopefully the install directions are with the RF, if not, request from Hood. It's a little tricky but if you are handy and can follow directions you can DIY. If not, call a rigger.