JIb Sheet Control and Mast Raising

[Tom]

How do you handle your jib sheets with the non-self tailing winches on the 260? I'm used to self tailing winches or daysailors that you really need to hold the sheets at all times. Do you winch in and then use the jam cleat? Has anyone replaced the jam cleat with a cam cleat? That would work best if you can trim without using the winch. Anyone use those blue rings that simulate self tailing winches?Also, can you use the mast raising system on the water or do you need the trailer winch? I'd like to be able to drop my mast to go under bridges at the beginning and end of the season.Thanks for the help

 

[Fred Kinkel]

Cam Cleats Work Great

We installed two cam cleats on our 95 H26 and they have worked great. We placed them at the top of the vertical surface right next to the hatch board slots. The sheet can be released from the windward side of the cockpit if you get hit by a good gust and need to release quickly. The forces and short length of line are small enough on the winch that we don't really miss the sell tailing-crank with one hand and tail with the other. On your second question, we have lowerred our mast on the water to get under a bridge. It works the same for us on the trailer or off. Just make sure you have calm water. Bouncing around can put some pretty strong force on the supports while raising and lowering.Good LuckFredH26 Escape

 

[T J Furstenau]

Winchers and Mast Raising

My 26 has the blue rings, called Winchers, and I have found them very useful. They have performed well for me. It makes it nice to be able to lock in the sheet, and then pop it free with a flick of the wrist when necessary. Check out http://www.boatus-store.com/MC_Online/Browse.asp?showitem=18309As far as mast raising, I don't use the trailer winch, I use the main sheet and tackle secured in the anchor well to raise the mast. Everything I need is on the boat, so I could feasibly raise and lower on the water. I agree with Fred though, it would have to be very calm for me to try it.I see your homeport of Chicago, where do you sail out of? I trailer mine, so I launch from Winthrop, Hammond, or where ever the mood suits me.

 

[Tom]

I sail out of Montrose

I have a slip in MOntrose now but I am trying to get one in the new Millenium Harbor next to the Columbia Yacht Club as its only a short walk from my home. It'd be nice to trailer around but the boats a bit big for me to tow (just makes me nervous) and its awfully convenient to have it in a slip.