Recutting a Jib for better visibility

centerline · Dec 15, 2014

it is done often.... whenever someone buys a used foreasil that has too much "foot", it gets trimmed off and hemmed up. so you could do it just as well with a sail you already have... also some people have window panels sewn into the jib...

Jackdaw · Dec 15, 2014

Remember that if you re-cut the foot of the sail, the ideal location for your jib car/fairlead will move AFT. Make sure you have room for that or you'll be adding a new track as well.

Gunni · Dec 16, 2014

This is a common problem with center cockpit boats, cockpit position and height. I don't believe 12" to 16" would get you what you need. You could try falling off the wind every few minutes to view what is shadowed by your genoa.

RichH · Dec 16, 2014

donvanv said:
I thought I saw posts on this topic in the past, but was unable to find anything using the search tool. Sorry if this is redundant.

I have a Beneteau 36CC with roller furling on the jib. When it is out, it is difficult if not impossible to see under the jib on that side. Has anyone cut a section off the foot of jib to give better visibility? The foot also rides on the life line on that side as well. I', thinking of a 12-16" cut. I don't race, so that would not be an issue.

You really dont have to cut off the entire foot to gain 'visibility' ... just cut the foot from the tack on an angle which raises only the clew, not the tack. Such is called a Yankee Cut Jib.

A recut into a 'yankee' is a bit 'cheaper' and less time consuming to do, as most of the 'expensive' time consuming 'hand work' is in the reinforcement of the corners including new 'cringles' or D-rings. With a Yankee Cut you only need to alter one 'corner'.
Still better and without sail area loss, is to install clear vinyl windows in a jib.

Recutting a Jib for better visibility

donvanv

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centerline

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Jackdaw

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Gunni

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RichH

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