Pointing Ability

[Terry]

I have used two different, but basically quite similar, standing rigging tuning procedures and believe I have the rig tuned as well as possible short of using a Loos guage. I also use telltales on the headsail and main for sail trimming aids. My 1986 C22 still doesn't point worth s--t. How much effect does a baggy (1986 vintage) main have on pointing ability? Which would have the most adverse effect on pointing, a worn out main or genoa?

 

[David]

Sails

A blown-out sail will kill you. I use the North Sails tunning guide on my boat, and it out-points all of the C-22s at our club. I have an 85, but the sails are not original. I do not know what year model the sails are.David

 

[Bayard Gross]

North Sails Guide AND Loos Gauge

David is right about the North Sails Guide, but I think it should be noted this guide, as found in the Catalina 22 National Sailing Association web site under Technical Tips, works in conjunction with mast tuning with a Loos Gauge.However, this guide for setting shrouds and stays assumes you have a backstay adjuster. Without a backstay adjuster, no matter how tight you get the forestay and how loose you get the backstay, there should be some rake backwards to the mast that Catalina defaults into its design. Basically, the backstay is made a bit too short to provide some flattening to the main so the boat is safer in windy conditions.A Loos Gauge is important, and you will be surprised at how far off you are from proper tension. The gauge should even come with some suggested readings for the 1/8" wire on C-22's and I found them to be quite good.I think it is best to get your shroud, stay and sail controls in place before condemning your sails and putting a lot of money into new canvas that does not set properly.

 

[Don]

Click on the related link below and it will take you to an article by Bill Holcomb titled, "Pointing". This article is on the C25/250 National Association website and is fairly detailed in explaining the components of pointing.

 

[Terry]

Thanks for the responses

Appreciate the help. One of the tuning guides was North Sail's. I can't recall the other but they were quite similar. Both utilized a tape measure off the jib or main halyard, sighting up the mast, dropping a plumb bob from the main halyard to below the boom to measure mast rake, etc. I've got to be close, even without a Loos. Thanks...I'm always impressed with the idea of asking a question in WA and getting answers from TX, CT and the Great Lakes. Proves the value of this forum.