New sails or not

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Jake Moor

A 1981 22 with original main and 150 genoa. also, have a jib that was original and seen better days. So many places to spend money and this winter I plan to install the inboard tracks I have in the garage. Already put a bimini on this summer - why did I ever wait? Any comments on how substantial the improvement would be buying a new loose footed main or new genoa. The main is definitely original to 1981 and the boat has seen average use. Should I pop for the new main? Will it help me point better? Comments appreciated.
 
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Bayard Gross

Sounds like my 82 C-22 a few years ago

When I first obtained my 82 C-22 (built in late 81 as an 82 model), I had the original main, a 150, and a 110. About three years ago I replaced the main with the new standard Catalina main which has larger battens. The effect on performance was quite noticable. At the same time I also put in a four to one outhaul system identical to the one thatCatalina Direct sells. I used the same blocks from West Marine and Boat US and then used various shackles, eye straps, and then a small Ronstan cam cleat about mid point on the boom. The cam cleat is supported on the curve of the boom by cutting a small Harken cam cleat wedge in half which is placed under the cam cleat to provide an angled bottom for the boom curve. In addition, I also installed a boomkicker which has done wonders at saving the leech of my new main sail. I use some beefy Harken fiddle blocks for my vang with 5/16 inch Technora-Spectra Blend line. I also put in a CDI furler with the Ullman 135 jib available through Catalina Direct. The Ullman 135 is about 5 and one half ounces, which is about half an ounce heavier than a 150 and I personally like the heavier cloth. I also had a foam luff put in. There are pluses and minuses to the CDI furler. The internal halyard has advantages, however, this does necessitate some modifications to the furler to have it set up easily and tightly. If I were to do it again, I would probably go for either the Schafer or Harken furler that Catalina Direct sells despite the addtional cost. I do think it is wise to get a new jib if you are going to put in a furler, as opposed to adapting an old jib for furler use. More money, but in that fashion you're starting fresh and can cut the extrusion to just the right length so that you have room to raise it to check your forestay tension with a Loos guage. Catalina Direct sells a full batten loose footed main sail at a very good price. There was a discussion about main sails by Doyle Sails on this web site a while back. I drew the impression that they feel loose footed mains are the way to go. But there is, of course, lots of arguements to the other side.
 
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Joe

New Sails..........

....will definitely improve performance in all conditions. Don't wait, get the main now... you won't be sorry. Loose or shelf foot, doesn't matter. Get some quotes. Stock sails for C22 are readily available from all sailmakers. Check these online guys if you want to save some money: CruisingDirect.com, Air Force Sails (Sailnet.com). You will get a discount if you order more than one sail. Go for it, it'll be the best investment you make in the boat.
 
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Eric

Agree with Joe ...

Like the bimini, you'll wonder why you waited so long. People who get sails or bimini also say the same thing. What was I waiting for? Huge and very noticeable difference. Eric
 
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Trevor

Sail fast

Yep, you'll be amazed at the performance improvement with new sails. Sail trimming will become a hobby instead of a chore. Shop around, but make sure you check out the offerings from Doyle available right here on this site. Best, Trevor
 
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