We will be getting a custom dodger made in the next few weeks for our new C310. Since I have no experience with one, I'm not sure what input into the design I should have. I read somewhere that I should be able to see over it when standing at the helm, but most of the dodgers I see around seem awfully large. I think I would prefer one that is a little on the smaller side for less windage. Does anyone have any suggestions on size or features to consider?
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dodgers
I had a couple of dodgers built for Puget Sound sailing, and i agree with you that the big ones look silly. A bad dodger can destroy the lines of your boat! In addition to the height (don't forget to factor in anyone else who might spend time at the helm, like your spouse), the other issues are: - clearance around winches. I don't like dodgers that require you remove side panel to use winch handles. I always had the frame built with plenty of clearance. - overhang aft. I had mine built so there was some shelter for people sitting at the far forward edge of the cockpit, up against the bulkhead. That way you get out of the rain for a while. - I also opted for more window and less canvas. This is a more expensive route as the window material fogs after about 3 years and should be replaced. It ain't cheap. But I liked having plenty of light and visibility. The best one I had made had handholds built onto the aft edge of the frame (people use it anyway, why not give them a good, secure place to grip?) and snap-on covers for thew windows - that made them last a lot longer. Also, up here I wouldn't skimp on the dodger. It's an important piece og gear on PS.
I had a couple of dodgers built for Puget Sound sailing, and i agree with you that the big ones look silly. A bad dodger can destroy the lines of your boat! In addition to the height (don't forget to factor in anyone else who might spend time at the helm, like your spouse), the other issues are: - clearance around winches. I don't like dodgers that require you remove side panel to use winch handles. I always had the frame built with plenty of clearance. - overhang aft. I had mine built so there was some shelter for people sitting at the far forward edge of the cockpit, up against the bulkhead. That way you get out of the rain for a while. - I also opted for more window and less canvas. This is a more expensive route as the window material fogs after about 3 years and should be replaced. It ain't cheap. But I liked having plenty of light and visibility. The best one I had made had handholds built onto the aft edge of the frame (people use it anyway, why not give them a good, secure place to grip?) and snap-on covers for thew windows - that made them last a lot longer. Also, up here I wouldn't skimp on the dodger. It's an important piece og gear on PS.
Roll-Up Panel
You might want to consider a roll-up panel in the center of the "windshield". It's nice to have on those hot days when you want a little breeze. I agree on the lower profile, it looks better and I prefer looking over the dodger. Also, the hand-holds mentioned by Phil are a must. I have horizontal hand holds along the trailing edge and on the outboard sides at the top.
You might want to consider a roll-up panel in the center of the "windshield". It's nice to have on those hot days when you want a little breeze. I agree on the lower profile, it looks better and I prefer looking over the dodger. Also, the hand-holds mentioned by Phil are a must. I have horizontal hand holds along the trailing edge and on the outboard sides at the top.
Traveller Control
Consider having your canvas maker provide a way to adjust the traveller control lines through the dodger.
Consider having your canvas maker provide a way to adjust the traveller control lines through the dodger.
Dodgers
It seems to me the previous 3 posts in combination have perfectly described the factory Catalina dodger I have on my 99 c320. They may be a bit overpriced, but as described in the previous 3 posts, I think they do everything right. Stan
It seems to me the previous 3 posts in combination have perfectly described the factory Catalina dodger I have on my 99 c320. They may be a bit overpriced, but as described in the previous 3 posts, I think they do everything right. Stan
check this site/forum
Some photos were posted today of a really nice dodger; they're on our Hunter site, but hey, a dodger's a dodger, right? http://www.hunterowners.com - check the photo forum.
Some photos were posted today of a really nice dodger; they're on our Hunter site, but hey, a dodger's a dodger, right? http://www.hunterowners.com - check the photo forum.
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