Mainsheet for a 30T

[Sailgunner]

I want to replace my mainsheet system on my 1992 30T. I tried a Garhauer but it does not work. Their fiddle block is angled and it is not possible to cleat the line under load. They have agreed to a refund but now I am back at square one. I was looking at the Harken system and about have it figured out. Anyone have advice on mainsheet systems?

 

[Ed Schenck]

Hard to comment because. . . .

I thought your mainsheet went through a clutch to a winch. Isn't your mainsheet on mid-boom tied to an adjustable traveler over the companionway? Then how is it terminated?

And I guess you are saying that the Garhauer fiddle block has a cam cleat that is not adjustable. Many fiddles have a cam cleat that has an adjustable angle. I have a Garhauer with cam cleat on my H37C mainsheet and you are correct it does not adjust. But it works well because my traveler is in the cockpit.

 

[Grizz]

Harken gross/fine system...

...working fine after 2 seasons of use on a h28.5. A link to the Harken part number is attached; it has gross/fine capability, a ratchet system on demand (can be disabled) and the lead angles for the mainsheet can be adjusted to your specific needs. Not cheap, but reliable and durable.

http://www.harkenstore.com/uniface.urd/scpdinw1.ShowProd?B4RPMEB9Y9BQ90

 

[Ed Schenck]

But Grizz. . .

your H28.5 has the mainsheet in the cockpit with traveler on the bridgedeck, does it not? And I think the Harken has an adjustable angle for the cam cleat. Still do not understand how that applies to a mid-boom mainsheet over the companionway.

 

[Grizz]

If the 'bridgedeck'...

...is defined as having the traveler & mainsheet mounted just aft of the companionway at seat level, you are correct. This creates a boom purchase somewhere between mid-boom and end-boom (3/4 boom?). If the 30T has a cabin top traveler (does it?), it may not apply. My bad if that's the case. Nevermind...

 

[Steve Dion]

Re: If the 'bridgedeck'...

Why don't you post a few photos. This will make the visual a lot easier for everyone to comment.

Our H'31 had cleats on the end of the traveler that allowed us to quickly cleat or release the traveler line.

 

[Sailgunner]

On Cabin Top

The mainsheet is on the cabin top but does not go through a clutch to a winch. It is connected to the traveler and it works fine for adjustment but I also need to be able to adjust the main under load. It might be possible to add a block forward on the cabin top then run the mainsheet through this block, back under the seahood, then to a spare clutch I have but I hate to add a block on the cabin top.

 

[Sailgunner]

Re: On Cabin Top

I bought a Harken System with a 6:1 purchase and it works great. It cost four times (3 times with the main block purchased on Ebay) as much as the Garhauer system but this one works. Garhauer agreed to provide a refund - good company but they just don't make a good mainsheet system for this boat. Now even the Admiral can sheet/unsheet the main!