New Jib - what's the leech line for?

[kpgraci]

I bought a new to me jib on ebay. It's used but in very good condition, got a good deal on it, PO said it was too small for his boat. Sailmaker is Ullman Sails.

It has a slightly longer luff then my current jib but actually fits the boat better. The foot is also longer making it about a 110.

It comes with a leech line. I've seen those on a main but not a jib before - what is its purpose on a jib and how would I use it?

 

[bffatcat]

to tighten up a fluttering leach

 

[RichH]

The leech line is used/adjusted to stop the leech from 'fluttering'. You adjust it the same as with a mainsail ... loosen it until the fluttering begins, then tighten enough so that the fluttering 'just' stops ... thats it.

 

[kpgraci]

The leech line is used/adjusted to stop the leech from 'fluttering'. You adjust it the same as with a mainsail ... loosen it until the fluttering begins, then tighten enough so that the fluttering 'just' stops ... thats it.

OK...so that requires a trip to the fore deck?

 

[RichH]

Once you set the leech line for your normal wind conditions you usually dont have to change the leech line tension ... much.

Fluttering for long periods of time will weaken the sail material and break the stitching.

 

[kloudie1]

Quick note, Ken.. Before ya pull the leach line, make sure your jib sheet block is in the correct fore/aft position. so that when you are close reaching, all the luff telltales break at the same time.. then pull the line to just stop any flutter..

 

[kpgraci]

Sounds good. Thanks for the info.

 

[Joe]

Just like the mainsail, don't touch the jib leech line unless you have to, which means the sail is aging and beginning to stretch.... if you over tension it.. the result is a cupped leech.. and that is undesirable.

I've had my dacron 110 for almost ten years and have NEVER touched the leech line.

In other words, leave it alone.