Hello I am looking to get a new main for my 83 H34. Most likely full battened. Would appreciated recommendations. Thanks, Jim
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Backstay interference
We got a new full-batten main for our H-35 recently and the only gripe I have is the way the top battens like to hang-up on the backstay when tacking. In very light air I have to 'pull up' on the backstay to let the sail come across. Otherwise, the full-batten main is great with regard to shape. Also, because it's somewhat heavier and has more friction on the slugs it is also more difficult to hoist. If this is a problem I'd recommend paying extra for better bat-cars.
We got a new full-batten main for our H-35 recently and the only gripe I have is the way the top battens like to hang-up on the backstay when tacking. In very light air I have to 'pull up' on the backstay to let the sail come across. Otherwise, the full-batten main is great with regard to shape. Also, because it's somewhat heavier and has more friction on the slugs it is also more difficult to hoist. If this is a problem I'd recommend paying extra for better bat-cars.
Talk to a sailmaker
Talk to a sailmaker you trust or talk to several in your area & discuss the pros & cons that each says with the next sailmaker. Be sure to tell your life style, racer/cruiser, types of racing/cruising, how often you wish to replace, etc. Bought my new racing main 5 years ago for wed. night & long off shore racing only. Thus had several reef points installed. Have been told for racing anything more than the top 1 or 2 full battens is detramental. With only 1 or 2 you shouldn't need special cars. My foot is open (no sail slugs). I have had my luff bolt rope tightend this past year with minimal expense. Talk to other customers re the sailmakers attitude. Is he interested in selling you more than you need, big$$ now vs a long relationship as you can afford things. We all don't replace a complete suite of sails every 2-3 years. Take the time to ask around. A good one will take the time, measure your boat, and bring em down to be sure they fit & even take you out for instruction & check that he put it together right. BOL PJ
Talk to a sailmaker you trust or talk to several in your area & discuss the pros & cons that each says with the next sailmaker. Be sure to tell your life style, racer/cruiser, types of racing/cruising, how often you wish to replace, etc. Bought my new racing main 5 years ago for wed. night & long off shore racing only. Thus had several reef points installed. Have been told for racing anything more than the top 1 or 2 full battens is detramental. With only 1 or 2 you shouldn't need special cars. My foot is open (no sail slugs). I have had my luff bolt rope tightend this past year with minimal expense. Talk to other customers re the sailmakers attitude. Is he interested in selling you more than you need, big$$ now vs a long relationship as you can afford things. We all don't replace a complete suite of sails every 2-3 years. Take the time to ask around. A good one will take the time, measure your boat, and bring em down to be sure they fit & even take you out for instruction & check that he put it together right. BOL PJ
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