main sail reefing

[billmillar]

I know this may be a stupid question but here goesI am tryng to reef my main sail and can figure out how to reef the stern end of the main sail? There are 2 lines that run through the boom from bow end to stern and arejust tied up in a ball at the stern end of the boom. I am guessing that these have something to do with holding down the stern end of the amin sailCan anyone help/Thanks

 

[Capn Dave]

Well not really

Can you attach a picture? Do you have all you lines led Aft?  There are a number of ways to accomplish reefing. From just droping the sail and tieing it to the boom, to roller reefing, in boom reefing, in mast reefing, The list goes on and on . I sure would like to see what your talking about.Fair WindsCap'n Dave

 

[skipper21522]

mainsail reefing

Bill,Typically Seidelmann used Kenyon spars (mast and boom). The boom would have three lines from the mast end aft. The center line is for the outhaul tension. The line on the starboard side is for reefing and the one on the port side is for the adjustable topping lift. Now back to the reefing line. The line must go up thru the reefing cringle or reefing clew on the sail to the port side and attach to an eye strap on the boom with a bowline. Start by dropping the main so the reefing cringle is in a position to put the reefing cringle on the hook at the mast end of the boom, next pull the reefing line as hard as you can and use the levered clam to jam the line in the tension position. Now pull the halyard back up drawing out any wrinkles in the luff of the sail. Remember if it is windy enough for a reef be sure to tension the sail for relatively flat sail. For complete instruction and pictures See: http://www.sailingusa.info/weather_and_reefing.htm#Reefing%20the%20sails Fair winds,Skipper