Mid Boom sheeting conversion.

[John rolka]

I'm considering converting from end to mid boom sheeting, where the main sheet lands in the cockpit is annoying, I am thinking of doing it on my own reusing as much stuff as I can. The main questions that jumps out that I can't readily analyze are:

1. The location of the traveler track given the length of the boom and the cabin top, the possible location appears to be very far forward, nearly mid boom. I am planning to split the connection to the boom with 3 bails to gain mechanical advantage in the main sheet and distribute the load. How far back are typical installations. I will want to not knock my head descending to the cabin. Where are these typically located. Is there any manufacturer based guideline?

2. With the traveler as far forward as it will be I currently have a 4 pulley setup for moving the traveler. Looking at the available kits they typically have a 6:1 system for the mid boom traveler. Does anyone think I'll find the 4:1 system unusable?

I have an engineering background so I can size member design connections and calculate loads and stresses etc, I also have friends with metal fabricating shops so I thinking to cobble this all together mostly with what I have and a little bit of metalwork. The thing that would push me to buying a kit would be the 4:1 vs 6:1 advantage with the traveler car. If I need the 6:1 I'm better off just buying a kit for $600 rather than spending 100$ on materials and days of my time.

Thanks for any input.

Regards,
John Rolka

 

[Stu Jackson]

John, the newer C27s had cabintop travelers. Rather than trying to reinvent the wheel, I suggest you do two things:

1. Check the C27 Association website (www.catalina27.org most likely)

2. Call Garhauer and tell 'em what you wanna do - Bill, Guido or Mark will tell you everything you need to know.

 

[caguy]

I am watching with interest. I considered it at one time but decided to give aft traveler a try. I don't see a need to change. I have concerns that moving it to the cabin top will obstruct the view.

 

[philwsailz]

I am watching with interest. I considered it at one time but decided to give aft traveler a try. I don't see a need to change. I have concerns that moving it to the cabin top will obstruct the view.

But free up the dance floor.....