Rigid Boom Vangs

[John]

I am looking to install an Rigid Boom Vang on my 2000 340. Any suggestions as to manufacturers? Will installing this effect the raising of the main sail in any way? (It's already somewhat of a challenge getting it all the way to the top.)Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[charles hubbard]

topping lift

do you have a topping lift? if your boom is at an obtuse angle with the mast you will have trouble getting the sail up. as long as the bomm vang does not cause this condition you should be fine.

 

[John]

Yes there is a topping lift

There is a topping lift in use currently. Next time I go to the boat I'll check the angle of the boom. If it is off (obtuse), I don't remember it being that severe.

 

[Chuck]

Garhauer

Put a Garhauer Rigid vang on my 336 last year, would to it again in a second. Usual problems with raising main on these boats are caused by dirty sail track and slugs(clean and spray), reef lines that are twisted or not loose, main sheet not loose, and boat should be dead into the wind.

 

[Steve Dion]

In addition

John:In addition to what Charles & Chuck have mentioned about raising the main. Be sure that you line clutches are in their full open position. I found that if you open partially the line will flow through the clutch but there is still a lot of friction. Once the main is close to the top then you can close it and winch your main to it's proper tension.

 

[Joe O]

Garhauer

John,After much research I chose the Garhauer rigid vang. It certainly was the best value because they include the boom and mast brackets in the purchase price, while the competition charges extra. The unit is all stainless and is very easy to install. See link below for Garhauers website. The vang has certainly improved the sailing performance of my H34. I led the control line to the cockpit and have removed the topping lift. Hope this helps and good luck!JoeO