How do I add a halyard for a cruising spinnaker

[Al Johnston]

We would like to add a second forward halyard for a cruising spinnaker so that we do not have to lower the head sail every time (it's on a furling headstay). Please give me advice as to the equipment we need including blocks, halyard, cleats, etc., (models and manufacturers please) and how to rig it (where to we mount the cleat, etc). Any advice as to what works well will be much appreciated.

 

[Robert Fischer]

spinnaker

I just added the tackle for a spinnaker to my 27. You need to hang a swivel block from the forward pin on the masthead, While your up there drop a 2 new 3/8 halyards (80 feet each) down the mast, 1 is for the pole topping lift. You will need to add a track with a slide car to the forward side of the mast, for the spinnaker pole to attach to. You will need to add blocks to the aft sides of the boat on the aft most part of the jib track will be OK. Aside from that you will need spinnaker sheets (1/4 inch 3x the length of the boat for each side. The sheets run from the spinnaker to the aft blocks then fwd to the jib winches. Good luck.

 

[Guest]

No Pole

By cruising spinnaker I assume you mean the type that clips to the forestay and doesn't need a pole. Therefore you can dispense with the topping lift, downhaul and track. Otherwise Robert's advice is right on.