Jiffy Reef line size?

[Jack Walsh]

Hi all,I have a C30 TRBS with a double reef point, fully battened North Sails main sail. It is set up for jiffy reefing though the line diameter seems too large to properly cleat to the reefing cleat located on the boom.Does anyone know what the correct diameter of the reefing line should be?Thanks in advance,Jack Walshs/v StarlightVentura, CA

 

[Stu Jackson C34 1986 #224]

Line size

JackMaybe the cleat's too small. My C34 has 3/8 inch reefing lines. In fact, the reefing lines themselves are smaller than the tie wraps on the sails to snug the reefed main to the boom.I'd try the C30 Association website, they most likely, as most Associations do, have the manual for the boat right on line, with all the dimensions and sizes for standing and running rigging.Good luck,Stu

 

[Steve]

I think the diameter of the reef line is:

5/16". At least that is what I recall reading in my owners manual and handling on the boom when I reefed my main. Unfortunately, I sold the boat and shipped the manual off to the new owner, so I can't check either the manual or the existing reef line.As I recall, the cleat for the reef line on my '87 was a jam cleat, so you do want the correct size line. Too large won't fit under the jam horn, while too small won't jam once it is in the cleat. 5/16" is a good compromise of minimal stretch and adequate size that neither of these problems should rear their ugly heads.Best of Luck