dodger

reefmagnet · Jan 17, 2001

On Wed, 17 Jan 2001 08:27:58 -0900, David Ham wrote:

reefmagnet · Jan 18, 2001

On Wed, 17 Jan 2001 20:14:00 -0500, I wrote:

reefmagnet · Feb 7, 2001

David ,
I'm quite interested in the entire canvas package for the Vega. I'd like copies of the photos of each and a $ estimate. I think I have a very experienced canvas man who would be interested in giving us a bid and to ship all around the globe. E-mail ; lastgasp@...

Thanks
Dave Cazel
V 3233

wxt8981 · Sep 1, 2002

Hi Sebastian;
I, too, have a dodger- though I had it (re) made by a canvas shop. I
don't, however.
have a (plastic) window; I didn't think I would need it. (and I don't)
I also have the original 'tent' that covers the cock-pit. I use that one
also very much,
most of the time when I'm in a marina (less when I anchor, for some
obvious reasons, like
a sudden change in wheather with heavy winds). That 'tent' extends
the living space
quite a bit.
Good luck with your 'dodger'
Wilhelm V-257

brockhaus77 wrote:

stevebirch2002 · Sep 2, 2002

Hi All

With reference to the Dodger (or sprayhood as we call them in the UK) most of
the UK Vegas have a higher version of the dodger with clear acrylic
windows. As
we usually sail in slightly heavier seas most have found it necessary for the
higher dodger made with stainless steel frame and some have an additional
grabrail for safety. As I have just returned from a trip to France in a F5/6
right on the nose for 18 hours I can assure you I was very happy with the
higher dodger!! Along with the Navik windvane doing the steering, we kept dry
and warm and could keep a look out for any large ships (and there were many)
fromn the dry and comfort behind the dodger.

Steve Birch Vega "Southern Comfort" V1703 - Southampton, UK
At 17:20 01/09/02 -0400, you wrote:

pelagicasd · Sep 2, 2002

Hi Sebastian, The origional dodger left a lot to be desired. It was rather
weak. The attachment forward would let go frequently and the entire assembly
collapse. Think of the dodger as a safety item as well as a comfort item. By
having a custom one built you can have it tailored to your height. Ours was
built so we could just see over it. The windows can zip down so when we are
at anchor the breeze can come through. Zippers on the top allow us to mount
a soft solar panel and move it off of the dodger as desired. If I was going
to do it again I would add a grab rail to the top that I could also use as
an attachment point for a bimini. Good luck with the project. Walt, Lyric
S/V 120

mphalv · Sep 2, 2002

Hi Steve,
My husband and I are very interested in purchasing a new, higher dodger over
the winter. A couple of years ago, we raised the boom about a foot from its
original location to accommodate the higher dodger. We also wanted a
stronger, stainless steel frame, preferably with a grab bar. We find that we
tend to grab the forward edge of the dodger when returning to the cockpit
from the side deck. The original frame is just too flimsy for that purpose.
We live in Maine, and have looked into having a custom dodger built locally,
but so far been unable to locate anyone we're comfortable with. One fellow,
whose canvas work appears to be excellent, wants to completely redesign the
frame so that it attaches at different location. We're not to sure we want
to do that. Also, his estimate was well over $2000.00 US.

Do the taller dodgers that you use in the UK utilize a frame that attaches at
the same place as the original frame? Would it be possible to have the
taller dodger built in the UK by a company that has already built several
Vega dodgers, or would the cost be prohibitive? I think there are many US
Vega sailors who are interested in a taller dodger as well--perhaps we could
arrange a discount price if several were ordered.

I would also like to know if any of you US Vega owners have purchased a
taller dodger with stainless steel frame and grab bar that you are satisfied
with.

Thanks for any advise or suggestions.

Melanie and Paul Halvachs
V1826 "Double Fantasy"

pelagicasd · Sep 2, 2002

Melanie, $2000.00!!!!! Thats a lot for a dodger. I'd figure on between 8 and
1600 depending on the bells and whistles. If that guy is typical on his
pricing though the price will be down around December or January. Another
option might be to build your own. Try going to www.sailrite.com and look at
their site for the do-it-yourself sailmaker/canvasworker. Remember though,
the taller your dodger is the more windage you will get. Taller is not
stronger. The longer the pieces of metal are the more leverage they can be
subjected to.
Walt

stevebirch2002 · Sep 3, 2002

Hi Melanie

The dodgers are actually ade by the Vega Association Secretary and she only
make sthem for the Vega. They incorporate stainless steel frame and as an
extra
you can have a stainless steel grabrail. The cost of the dodger (sprayhood) is
£385 and the grabrail is £110. Carriage is about £50 - £70 to the USA. The
dodger is attached at different points but come complete with all fittings and
instructions. Each one is made by Diana and fitted to her Vega first to ensure
an exact fit. They really are very good and even I have one! We have already
sent some to the USA and only had good reports. You will have to contcat Diana
for delivery dates etc as she only make sthem during the winter months as she
sails during the summer. Her email address is:

diana@...

Kind Regards Steve Birch Vega "Southern Comfort" V1703
At 19:03 02/09/02 -0400, you wrote:

mphalv · Sep 3, 2002

Hi again Steve

Thank you very much for your prompt reply about the UK dodger. My husband
and I are both very excited about the prospect of a new, improved dodger, and
plan to contact Diane right away for more information. For those of you who
already have one of her dodgers, I'm interested in recommendations regarding
custom features.
Thanks very much for your help and suggestions.
Melanie Halvachs
V1826 "Double Fantasy"