single vs double line
Andrew, My C250 came with single line jiffy reefing and it was always a struggle. A year ago someone after visiting a boat show commented that Catalina had discontinued running the jiffy line aft and couldn't imagine why. Change is often the result of warranty issues and this might be an example. After some discussion on the class association forum, it was discovered that indeed many owners were hauling the single reef line using a winch. The problem is that most single line reefs haul harder against the tack than the clew when in fact, its the clew that needs the greater energy. And, because the clew has greater stresses and is harder to haul, it has a much greater reinforcing compared to the tack. But, if the single line has to haul considerably harder against the tack to get the clew pulled down...damage can occur to the tack if the main isn't lowered quite enough. Also, using a winch has been the cause of many a popped sail slug if the clew is pulled aft without the tack being seated well first. Some advocate going to metal reinforced slugs... while others remain concerned that to do so would remove the weak link and perhaps then result in sail damage. There is some interesting reading on the Pineapple Sails site about their observations and recommendations about single vs two line reefs. In my case, my 2nd reef was put in as a two line reef and its ease of setting was obvious compared to the single line 1st reef so I've gone two line on both. I now think two line reefs are much better. I know, this reverses some trend, but sometimes good ideas just don't pan out. Two line systems have far less drag and don't require a winch to set if a topping lift is used. Set the tack prior to the clew.
