Full Batten Mains

[George B., s/v Freya]

The battens on my C34 must be out of adjustment. One batten in particular, puts a pronounced "S" shape into the sail (towards the leech end). This "hollow" leach has got to be robbing speed from me. To adjust the batten, do I increase the tension of the batten in the pocket? Or do I loosen it? The pocket ends are finished off in velcro, which I assume means they can be adjusted.

 

[Trevor]

Ease tension

Easing tension on the batten will allow the sail to take a more natural shape. Give it a try and see what happens.Trevor

 

[Tim]

Check for taper

Are your battens tapered? If so, make sure the "thin" end of the batten is forward. The thin end toward the luff and mid section allow the sail to have a nice draft shape, while the thicker and stiffer aft end keeps the leech from falling off and ruining the airflow off the back of the sail.Tim