Outhaul System

[Steve Carpman]

We own a 1991 Hunter Legend 37.5 - a fractional rig with a very large main sail. The main is loose footed. We need to change the outhaul system - we get very little control with the current system. The existing outhaul is internal, exiting at about mid-boom to a cleat. We are thinking about installing an interal 6:1 block arrangement exiting at the existing mid-boom location or running the outhaul to the mast and then back to one of the halyard winches located on the coach roof. There are available sheaves in the forward end of the boom. Another suggestion was to use the 6:1 block arrangement and still run the outhaul back to the halyard winch.I would like to hear your thoughts which arrangement you think would work best and why.

 

[Bill Colombo]

Steve, If you have a rope clutch and an available slot in you deck organizer the simplest solution would be to lead the outhaul down to the deck and back to the clutch/winch. It also allows adjustment from the cockpit. If not I like the idea of the 6:1 inside the boom exiting up near the mast. This is better for racing type situations because it simplifies the pit area which can get very busy at times. You also don't have to add anything to the deck.Thanks,Bill ColomboDoyle Sailmakers