Main Sheet Cam Cleat Block vs. Clutch and winch

[Jim]

I am considering replacing the main sheet system on my H31. The present system has the sheet led up to the boom to the mast back to the cockpit and uses the cabin top winch to tighten the sheet. I would like to put a 6 purchase block and cam cleat on the traveler and couple it to the block on the boom eliminating the sheet going forward. Has anyone done this and can you get enough leverage to tighten the main sheet sufficiently?

 

[Ed Schenck]

Did it.

On my H37C. But the traveler is on the bridgedeck, where is yours? I bought two Garhauer fiddles, one with a cam cleat and both with beckets. Then I put two single blocks on the beckets to give me the 6:1. I have eliminated all the resistance of going forward under the boom and back to the cabin winch. Control is so much better and I can sheet in/out from the helm. In winds over 20 knots I might have to head up for a minute to relieve some of the pressure. Gives me piece of mind also, I can instantly dump the air.

 

[Paul]

That's the setup I have

My 1995 336 has a cam cleat and 6:1 purchase at the traveller, which is mounted on the steering pedestal. The mainsheet is double-ended, so I can put other end on a winch, but I never do.It can be tough to get the sheet tight in a fresh breeze. When it's really blowing I use the vang to get the boom pulled down, even close-hauled.Most of the time, however, it's easy. You haul in on the sheet with the traveller down until you like the amount of twist, then move the traveller back up to set the angle of attack.If you really need to, you can still run the mainsheet to a winch.

 

[Steve Dion]

Could you just add double blocks?

Jim:Could you just add double blocks on the traveler and the boom and leave everthing else like it is?On of my fellow sailors has a hobbie rachet block from a Hobie on his H'30. It works good.

 

[Jim]

I Like It DOUBLE ENDED

Thanks Paul and Steve, I like the double ended bit. I can use it either way by adding the necesary blocks and cam cleat at the traveler