In Mast Furling Winkles

[Marc]

I've read that some of you have been able to furl in your main sail without wrinkles. I keep the boom vang tight and the halyard is also tight. I seem to get wringles at the head of the sail as well as the middle of the sail. I usually furl the sail and keep some light pressure on the outhaul. Any suggestions on how to furl it and avoid wrinkles would be appreciated.Marc

 

[Al STORY]

You probably thought of this already

I'm certainly no expert but, here are some thoughts:- how is the tension on your main sail halyard? Could the sail have slipped a bit for some reason?- Is it possible that you have some stretch in your main sail?- I have gotten wrinkles when the wind is stronger when furling and the sail is fluttering while into the wind.- Is your boom fully centered while furling?- Maybe the tension on the outhaul while you furl could be increased? Just some thoughtsAl

 

[Ed]

Similar Problem

Wish I could help you answer your question - I posted almost the exact question a week ago. I have a 426 and have significant wrinkles - actually a small fold or two in the sail just inside the mast at the end of the furling process. Out haul tight (very!) Boom vang tignt, boom centered, halyard tight. Don't know why - never a problem on my 326 same furling device - so can't figure what gives! Hope you find the answer. Ed

 

[Toni]

Don't center your boom

When we attended the Hunter Rendezvous in Port Credit Ontario this summer, we were given a demonstration of the correct way to furl our main. We had been doing it wrong too, thinking that the boom should be centered.They suggested that the boom be moved to port with the wind somewhat to starboard (not dead ahead).This reduces friction on the sail as you furl it counterclockwise inside the mast. It works for unfurling as well.We were amazed at the difference it made. Try it and see if it makes things easier and stops the wrinkles.

 

[Ed]

Thanks Tony

I will try this next time out - sounds logical! Too bad no one ever gave me any instruction on the correct way to sdo this!

 

[Chuck Wayne]

furling wrinkles

try easing the halyard tension-if it's too tight, it can cause wrinkles as you roll