Rodkicker installation

[Tim22]

I am installing a rodkicker rigid vang with cylinder on my Hunter 310 and am a bit confused as to the best way to set it up. I would like to ensure that the boom always sits above the arch which would suggest that it should bottom out in that position. This would mean that the cylinder would always be compressed when the main sail is lowered which I'm thinking is not great for the cylinder.

The other option is to set the vang so that the cylinder supports the boom when the sails are lowered. This would seem the better way so long as the cylinder functions properly. If the cylinder fails the boom would hit the arch when the main is down.

Any suggestions?

Thanks
Tim

 

[Ken13559]

I set up my Selden Rodkicker with gas spring such that the whole assembly bottom out (should the gas spring fails) without touching the Arch and Traveler. This way you can still sail a tight course with just the boom-vang. The gas spring will always be under load from the boom and mains. The gas spring will last for 5 years and more. I've the 10S/1360mm/ P/N:058-036-12 with Hard Gas Spring P/N: 308-071-04 (1.2kN).

 

[Tim22]

Thanks Ken
That seems like a good solution. You have the same setup that I have so I will follow your lead. Did you set up the Rodkicker without the spring first to set the bottom height and then add the cylinder?

Thanks
Tim
PS we were in Singapore last month as part of a trip to visit our son in KL. what a wonderful city!

 

[Ken13559]

Tim, no I didnt setup as you suggested but that is a good way as it ensure the boom wont touch traveler should gas spring collapse.
Glad you enjoy Sg.