How to attach multiple blocks at one point?

[simoncfr]

We have a Maxi 77 with its original boom; unfortunately the mechanism for the outhaul was not in great shape (see attached photo), so we had to move it to the point on the gooseneck that usually would have a downhaul attached (see second photo). At the moment this means that our downhaul is really just a single inappropriately thin line that runs over the boom.

It seems to me that if we could attach two blocks at the same attachment point we could address this: one block as we currently have for the outhaul, and a second for the downhaul. However, I am not sure if:
* This is a reasonable thing to do
* This is the best way to handle this

This might be the wrong way to think of things, and if so please correct me!

Thanks for the help!

 

[Scott T-Bird]

Yikes, the photos look like a bad situation. I doubt many of us are familiar with this boat or it's rigging specifications. But, I don't see why a double block couldn't work. It seems like the downhaul and the outhaul lines will run in similar planes. The downhaul line is parallel to the mast and the outhaul line is parallel to the boom and the boom and the mast are in the same plane at all times ... so, why not? May as well try.

 

[simoncfr]

Sorry, I should have been more clear. The first photo is what is used to look like, before I swapped out the line and (broken) block for what is shown in the second photo.

As for a double block, it could work, but the current system has some mechanical advantage for the outhaul which a double block would lose. Is there some way around that?

 

[Captain Larry-DH]

It would be helpful to see some photos that aren’t so close in, for those of us who aren‘t familiar with your boat to get a better perspective of your setup. The loaded lines need to run true to the blocks, and having perspective would help us to offer better ideas.

 

[jssailem]

Your Maxi is the 7.70 m (25.26ft) boat?

Blocks can provide a mechanical advantage or serve to turn the line with minimal friction.

Is your intention to run the lines back to the cockpit or terminate at the mast?

In the first image, it appears that there was a sheave that turned the outhaul out of the boom and downward. If the termination is at the mast, then it serves as a turning block. The second image makes me think it is now terminated in the cockpit. The challenge appears to be ( for the outhaul) that the block is angled on its side, not aligned with the path of the outhaul running to the cockpit.

When you use the term downhaul, do you mean the line is used to haul down your mainsail? Or is this a Cunningham that serves to adjust (trim) the sail luff?

Can you help clarify the overall rigging design as you intend its use?