Reefing lines jamming

[RobAL]

My reefing lines keep getting stuck, in particular in the narrow clearance around the pulleys at the end of the Selden boom. The lines are almost correct at 10mm (the 326 manual specifies 9.5mm in metric) but I've found parts of the lines have swollen by 1-2mm. When I replace them I've considered reducing the lines to 8mm as the Selden boom pulleys and clearances look small for 10mm comfortable handling, and as the single line reefing lines follow a complex route they need to run freely. Since buying the boat I've never been able to 'single line reef' from the cockpit because of this issue. I'd be grateful for any feedback from anybody who's had this same problem and advice on line size reduction, 10mm seems to me a bit over engineered for reefing lines.

 

[Sailfanatic]

If you are using a good quality 3/8" dacron braid line, I would expect that line to work fine, but I wouldn't expect it to swell, so that is strange. Maybe just replace with a new quality 3/8"? Going down in size should be OK provided your line stopper handles 5/16" line...

Below is a video on using single line reefing. I used to have the problem of the reefing lines binding on my P31-2. I traced the problem to the block inside the boom (known as a "shuttle" block) catching on screw ends inside the boom. The PO had added lazy jack fittings to the boom with screws which extended inside the boom. An edge of the shuttle block would catch on a screw head and the whole system would lock up. The straps on the sides of the shuttle block were bent out, making the problem continous. Removing the ends of the attachment screws, so the inside of the boom was smooth, plus replacing the shuttle block, completely solved the problem. I would pull the ends off your boom and inspect the inside before replacing the lines.

 

[RobAL]

Thank you for the reply with video, reefing should be that easy! I'll check the inside of the boom then replace the lines, see which diameter rope goes round the easiest.

 

[jssailem]

This is image represents the proper diameter of wire rope in a sheave. When choosing a fiber line, you would look for similar properties with regard to diameter and fit to the sheaves in the block.

 

[RobAL]

Thank you, it looks like my issues are illustrated by the middle diagram. I'm not sure about the full history of the boat, maybe some mast or boom parts are not original, but the easiest cure for me is a slight reduction in rope diameter for friction-free travel around the sheaves and pulleys.