Getting the jib sheets closer to the helm

[G. Ned Christensen]

I singlehand my H26 a a lot. It has tiller steering and I have long arms, but tacking with the sheet winches on the cabintop is still a stretch. Has anyone successfully rerigged the jib sheets closer to the helm?Thanks!Ned ChristensenSecond Wind

 

[Mickey McLaughlin]

Swivel cleats

I have short arms, so on my H26 there are cam cleats on a swivel base (Harken # 240) that were already installed by the previous owner. They are installed on top of the hard plastic cover that has the double drink holder. That way they are easy to thru-bolt and nuts are easily accessible. I can cleat & uncleat from from my position in the cockpit. I leave one wrap around both winches, so when I tack all I have to do is uncleat and and cleat on the opposite side.

 

[Steve]

More Stuff

Mickey McLaughlin's idea is great. Also, are you using a "Tiller Tamer" type device allowing you to set the tiller while your adjusting (winching) on the tack? I've seen aft winches mounted on the cockpit back rest top, however, used for a asymterical set up. Steve

 

[George Henry]

First mate

I use an auto pilot. It is a Autohelm with a tack control. Push the button and "Otto" takes over the helm while I become the first mate. I then disengage "Otto" and let him rest.Also nice on long voyages to steer a true course and let me rest.

 

[Ron Mehringer]

Stern cleats

Per the suggestion of someone on this board, when singlehanding I run the jib sheets to stern cleats. I usually take a single loop around the winch and then back to the cleat on the OPPOSITE side. This makes the sheets cross in the middle of the cockpit. But, at least the sheet always leads to the windward side so it can be tended.

 

[Wanderer138]

Longer sheets

Don't know if this will work for you, but it works on my H23.Get longer sheets and tie the stopper knots about 6 ft from the ends so you have enough "tail" to reach the helm even if the cleat slips. If you put a couple of wraps on the winch ahead of time and time the tack right, you can sheet the sail all the way in on the new windward side before it loads up under tension. If you need to sheet in some more, point the boat up a little until it starts to luff. The tension in the sheet will ease, and you can adjust the sheet and then fall off back onto your original course. You won't need the winch handle. I have also straddled the tiller on occasion to free my hands yet still keep the helm under control during tacks. Good luck.PeterS/V Raven