routing the genoa sheets

[Ed]

just bought an 81 Catalina 22, and have had to redo some of the rigging. We've figured out the jib, but not the 150 genoa sheets...we have the factory 'outer' tracks, and routing the sheets to the car on the track by passing between the shrouds and lifeline makes it pretty tough to let the sheets out for going downwind as the sail hits the lifeline...or should the sheets come off the sail to the car by going under the lifeline (from outside the lifeline)?if that doesn't make sense, could you steer me to a good resource?and I've yet to find a manual for an 81 boat..any tips?thanks for the help!!

 

[Joe Barrett]

Outside

With that big Genoa you should use the outer Genoa track with the sheets coming from outboard and under the lifelines. That will open the slot and be faster on all points of sail except close hauled. On a close hauled course the sheets need to be inside the lifelines.

 

[Bayard Gross]

Actually outside all the time

Since you have that wonderful obsolete 15/16 inch track, you do not have snatch blocks on your jib cars, nor do I think it is possible to get some for that track.The genoa/jib sheets are run outside the stanctions and below the lifelines. I think it is very impractical and difficult to attempt to run the sheets inside the stanchions and lifelines.In light winds you will discover how wonderfully the sheets hang up on the forward stanctions.I can describe for you how I modified my lifelines and stanctions but as it will be a bit lengthly, I'll wait for you to ask.Also, there is an ownwers manual for your boat on the Catalina National Sailing Association web site. I think it is a late seventies manual, but it would apply to your boat. The later, 1987 manual I think, refers to a later model C-22.And if you want to know anything about installing inboard tracks, well been there done that.

 

[Joe]

A snatch block will fit on any car....

Snatch blocks have snapshackles that allow them to be attached to the boat just about anyplace. I am not aware of a snatch block made for a particular model of boat. It's the CARS that need to match the track, not the block. The block attaches to the car.That being said, it is not necessary to purchase a pair of expensive snatch blocks just to be able to re-lead the sheets. simply re-lead the lazy sheet ( that's the one not under tension) then tack the boat and re-lead the other. Voila!.... you've just saved $150 by not buying a new pair of snatch blocks.

 

[Ed]

Thanks!

found the owners manual on line...that helped a bit. As for the genoa sheets, the wind blew way too hard this weekend to give it a try, so maybe next time.thanks for the helpful tips!