Jib size for Hunter 420 & reefing using the furlers

[Persy]

I have a 2001 Hunter 420 which needs new sails. I'll get a new main per original specs, but wonder if I should get a slightly larger jib.

The original is very small, maybe even less than 100%, which is what I was planning on getting, but wondered if anyone had replaced the original small jib with something a little larger, say 130.

I usually sail in very light winds and assume this would help, but also wonder if 'reefing' the jib by partially furling it when winds pick up would damage it.

I think the furler is supposed to be only that, a furler and not a roller reefer, though I have in the past reefed both the main and jib by partially furling them.

Any ideas, input, or experiences would be appreciated.

 

[Stu Jackson]

This comes up regularly:

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.

Your boat, your choice.

What furler do you have?

 

[Persy]

GREAT thread. Thanks! It settle things for me, I'll just go with the original size.

I have the original Profurl for the jib and Selden in mast for the main.

 

[seadaddler]

sailmaker

If you have a sailmaker come to your boat and take all the measurements
and he can tell you if you can make your sail may be 5% or more bigger.
I know some who have done this with good results.
Nick

 

[Jeff10528]

I replaced my sails this past winter using UK. They had made the originals and many other H boats during the late 90s when my H430 was built. The 430 is built on the 42' hull. The mast is 53' and has a single forestay as opposed to the double fore stays found on many of the 42' Passage models. My original sails were not exactly what was called for in the sail plan found in the owners manual. UK told me that they have found boat to boat differences in masts and booms among same models of boats built in the '97 - '98 period. This is why having the sailmaker measure your rig is most important.

The H430 sail plan called for a 110% Jennie which mine actually was although my old main had a longer foot and shorter luff than called for by the sail plan.

 

[greenispeace]

On our 2003, we will be upgrading this fall, not the jib, but the furler. We had our stick worked on several years ago by Brian Toss who noted Hunter opted for a smaller rather than robust furler. Larger bearings, stronger foil and larger cage for ample line on our 420 boat.