Is a new jib as important as a new main?

[Ward H]

When I asked here on the forum which should come first, the traveler or the main, it was unanimous to go with the new main.
I did and it was everything you guys said it would be.

So now I can ask Santa for the new main sheet traveler or a new 110 jib.

Current jib is probably original but appears to be in decent shape as far as integrity goes.
The jib sheet turning blocks are fixed which I know hinders good sail trim. Replacing the fixed blocks with tracks is out of the question because of the limited deck space and we enter from the bow. Admiral does not need more tripping hazards.

Considering that, will a crisp new jib increase sailing trim and performance as much as the new main did or should I go with the new traveler for the main first?

Thanks

 

[JohnVTX]

No question, new jib. Unless you are doing allot of racing, there is really no need for that traveler. Even if you do race, the new jib comes first.

 

[Brian S]

Yes, the old jib is probably blown out and baggy, and is impacting your pointing. Go for new rags.

Then you can debate whether to get a traveller or remote adjustable jib sheet tracks!

 

[Joe]

A new jib..... for sure. However, if you have fixed lead blocks... then you must buy from a sailmaker who will build the sail to your boat's specifications... many online chandleries will do that... and they will instruct you on proper measuring.....

Even though you've answered the issue... I highly recommend you find a way to make lead adjustments... it doesn't have to be a cluttered EZ glide system. It could be as simple as a movable snatch block on the toe rail. A variation on the barber hauler.. that pulls the clew forward, instead of athwartship. Or... flat track with a simple slider (no ball bearings) the car could be easily removed when not sailing. Think outside the box a little bit and you may find a solution that will keep your wife secure while improving boat performance.

 

[Stu Jackson]

Joe's right about a local sailmaker doing measurements on YOUR boat, can't be beat. The one position jib track is not a death knell. I sail with the proper jib for the conditions: 85% in stronger summer winds here, and a 110% for lighter winter winds. BOTH jibs have the clew at just the right position for my fairlead car. It's on a track, but it never has to move! I never reef either of my jibs. Do this first, then consider the other fine tuning mechanisms and tools.

The jib, with your masthead rig, IS the DRIVER sail.

Here's an interesting "take" on jib sizing:

A very illuminating and interesting discussion on co.com for those of you who might be in the market for a new jib.

http://forums.catalina.sailboatowners.com/showthread.php?t=155362

Please read all three pages. Enjoy.

Eventually, you'll get to a new main then a traveler. Even if you're a cruiser, good sail trim IS important.

Good luck & happy holidays.

 

[shemandr]

... then you must buy from a sailmaker who will build the sail to your boat's specifications...

Yes! Measurement will be key to getting a good setting sail. Personally, I like the sailmaker to come and measure. I think it's worth the extra cost. I know several who've done their own measurements and were disappointed; and I can tell because they tend to use their old sails. I had the North guy come measure for my Ranger and BANG. It was right there. And he came to check it. Also they will usually get the re-enforcement patches for spreaders and stanchions, if necessary, in the right place. And they can optimize the sail for local conditions. It's as much an art as a science.

 

[SailormanDan]

Unless you are doing allot of racing, there is really no need for that traveler.

As a cruiser, not a racer, I totally agree with this. If you take your sail to a local shop, plan on taking it with you so they can take measurements from it. With my new sails the boat will actually track on its own on some points of sail.

 

[David in Sandusky]

I, too, prefer a local sailmaker. Ours came out to our boat to assess and measure our sails. He thought he would recommend a new jib before a new main, but recommended a new main first after seeing the sails!

He has now advised me on sails and rigging for 15 years, and two sets of sails. There is no charge for the advice, and it's fun and instructive to talk with him. If I leave our sails with him over the winter, he provides inspection and repair at minimal cost. All of this at very competitive prices for local lofts, and within 10 to 20% of the mail order crowd. I think this is a great value, and his knowledge increases my enjoyment of my favorite sport, cruising the Great Lakes on Lady Lillie.

 

[Scott T-Bird]

Ward, where did you get your mainsail? The jib is your engine on masthead rig, so a new jib to compliment your new main would be my suggestion. Have the same folks make your jib. Why 110? Why not a little bigger?
My other suggestion ... maybe we hauled our boats out too early this year?? My bottom should be bare by now, so Sue & I are planning to take a look and put the cover on Sunday.

 

[Justin_NSA]

I agree. Get the jib first, but don't forsake the idea of a new traveler someday. It will help improve sail trim in light to heavy wind. Especially nice if your crew doesn't like heeling.
I don't know much about the Oday - how sail area is balanced between the main and the headsail. e.g. some Hunters have larger mains/ smaller jibs and vice versa depending on boat design. Maybe you should stick with the 110 for balance and the fixed fairleads. Going larger might not be better. Then there's the jib sail cut and construction to consider. Our Hunter's genoa has a radial panel pattern. The Macgregor has horizontal panels. Just some food for thought.

 

[Jackdaw]

When creating a boat's sailplan, normally a designer will draw it so the CE (Center of Effort) of the sailplan stays in basically the same place no matter what size headsail is being used. So don't worry about changing the helm if you go smaller.

Get a sail that works for your local conditions and your sailing program. A 110 jib might be slightly under-powered in light (<8) conditions, but usually at a level that you will not notice or care unless you are racing. And the jib will be better and more comfortable in bigger breeze, tack easier, and will be easier to see around.

 

[Scott T-Bird]

It is windy on the bay ... 15 to 20 knots seems to be common. My only thought is that rolling it up is an option. So I was thinking that the range can be a bit broader.
Ward, who made your main sail?

 

[Stu Jackson]

Jack's right, and this is a much shorter way to say what's included in the link I provided in reply #4. Thanks, Jack.

Get a sail that works for your local conditions and your sailing program. A 110 jib might be slightly under-powered in light (<8) conditions, but usually at a level that you will not notice or care unless you are racing. And the jib will be better and more comfortable in bigger breeze, tack easier, and will be easier to see around.