Double-Line Reefing Conversion

[Paul]

I wanted to add a couple of things to the photo forum post....I got tired of bitchin about the single-line reefing system on my 1995 h336, and decided to do something about it.Double-line reefing means that each reef point has two separate control lines: one for the tack reef point, and another line for the clew. I've wanted this system ever since I read Beth Leonard's articles about her boat's reefing setup on sailnet.com.On my boat, it was more difficult because the lines led back to the cockpit pass underneath a stupid cowling that is difficult to remove, and under which there is precious little room for additional deck organizers. Instead of adding new organizers, I decided to kick out two lines: the jib halyard and the other end of the double-ended mainsheet. This was an easy decision, since I had never once in five years had to blow the halyard of my roller-furled jib. Neither had I ever put the forward end of the mainsheet on a winch to trim. I always used the boom-end sheet and traveler.So, with two reef lines led back already, and two new slots freed up on the cabin top, I had room for four reefing lines: two reef points, two lines each.Now, the lines led to the cockpit from the mast base are: 4 reef lines, the main halyard, and the vang control.While testing this last night, I managed to put in several reefs with the wind aft of the beam. Granted, I was sheltered in the marina, but I am certain I could get a reef in while sailing off the wind in 15 knots or less.This has to be easier for almost any other boat. Just add the organizers or cheek blocks and clutches that you need, and run the extra lines back.Paul McGheesv Escape Artisth336

 

[Patrick Randall]

Is the tack ok like that?

I'm not sure how you pull the tack into the right place - I've only ever used single line and rams horn.Doesn't it flap about a bit?

 

[Ed]

tight clew on single line reefing

I'm not sure how you were going about it.When I reef with a single line, I ease the vang and mainsheet as neccesary, tension the topping lift to raise the boom, drop the halyard to the mark,then set the single line reef. When the halyard tension is reset and topping lift is eased, everything seems snug enough for me. I also have a smaller boat, so might not be as much of an effort by comparison.

 

[Paul]

Luff tension

The tack is very tight. I can put the tack control line on a winch if I want and tighten it just like a cunningham. It *is* the cunningham when a reef is in.Look at the photo titled "jib halyard" and you can see the tack held tightly in position.

 

[Andy]

ZSpar replacements

I like the look of the Garhauer replacements. Do they screw in top the mast plate or do the have that little nutstips that slide under?If they have the nutstrips like my 29.5, I would like to know the model number of those blocks!

 

[Paul]

Two ways to get mast base studs

You can order the mast-base block studs directly from rigrite (www.rigrite.com) if you can ever get anyone to answer the phone. You can also try usspars.com, the US distributor for Zspars.There are three sizes of studs, you'll need to measure the diameter of the opening. I've included a link, scroll to the bottom to see the block studs.What I did was drill the rivet out of the old plastic blocks, which left me with the block stud to re-use. I still needed to order one additional from Rigrite.You'll want to order the blocks from Garhauer to fit the studs. Just tell them you want the blocks for a mast base. Note the pin size on the studs that fit your mast and compare to the pin size on the Garhauer blocks.Paul McGheesv Escape Artist h336

 

[Mike Webster]

Single Line Reefing Has Worked Well for me

I have always loved my single line reefing on my Vision 32. I've put in the first reef, and then the second, without any help, in large building wind and waves more than once, and I can't think of an easier system to use.As you state, all single line reefing systems are essentially alike, so the only difference might be the size of the boom. Since the Vision has a large main sail, and therefore a large boom, there might be more room for the double blocks to pass. On rare occasion, I have had the blocks catch each other in passing, but mostly when I'm letting the reef out and the lines are not under tension. A little judicious jiggling of the lines unblocks them.I couldn't imagine going back to a more complex system (using a double line reefing system), but I understand the need for a system that works for you.