Inboard Track

[Dave]

I have been told that by placing an inboard track for my genoa that I can increase my pointing ability. Presently, I am using the standard Catalina 27 toe rail track. Is there anyone out there that has installed an inboard track and can inform me on how much difference it makes? Also, if installed, what is the best length for the track? How close to the cabin have you installed it? I would appreciate any comments...DAVE

 

[Robert Fischer]

Try this first

I have a C27 also. I've never tried that, but I think it may have adverse effects on the mainsail not to mention more holes in the deck. Before you do that try adding a barber hauler to the genoa sheet. With the main and genoa set point as high as possible, then clip a quick release shackel with about 15 feet of line to the genoa sheet about halfway between the genoa winch and the clew. Then pull the line in towards the center of the boat, use the cabin top winch. Fall off the wind slightly then head up again and see if the tell tales break evenly. If the uppers break first, your not achieving optimum sail trim, and the line should be released. Good luck.

 

[Joe Ford]

I have an inboard track approx. 14 inches long mounted on the raised, short coaming segment that joins the cockpit bulkhead. (just ahead of the primary winch) There are 3 or 4 positions for the lead car. I have run my 120 jib sheets directly and have also used an in-haul (or barber-hauler) setup for the 150 genoa. However, I would take the previous respodent's advice and rig a temporary barber-hauler to see if it increases pointing. Because the track is so short it limits the size of sails you can directly lead, so the barber-hauler setup allows you to use the toe rail adjustments along with the inboard track.In summary, the track gives me a few more options and it is certainly easy to install.