S2 27: Mainsheet lead through Spinlock clutch...Opinions?

[Scup]

So, on my new (to me) S2 27, the traveller is on the cabin top. The mainsheet is lead through a turning check block, then through a Spinlock rope clutch--a triple. As an old dinghy sailor, I'm not likin' this arrangement very much, although it appears to be standard OEM on the cruising version of this model boat. What's the verdict from the brain trust on this. Good, bad, simply ugly, or a broach waiting to happen? What's a good alternative, a hexaratchet with a cam cleat mounted on the traveller?

 

[Jim]

Try This

I replaced my cabin top traveler with a Schaeffer 1 1/8 in traveler system line control traveler for medium size boats and 2 ea 5 series fiddle blocks one with a cam cleat. I used the 72-36 Dual sheave car but I would recommend the 72-42 car with 6 wheels. I also used the 74-23 and 24 Double Sheave cam cleat.The only problem with this set up is that the line diameter is a little small in heavy winds. I think the 1 1/2 in system might be better.Jim

 

[BobM]

I am with you...

...on my 25 footer I liked to be able to have the tiller in one hand and the main sheet in the other. However, most cruising boats don't seem to allow for letting out the main sheet, as you would on a dinghy. This was a concern for me as I moved up to 30 feet. I posted a question on line and the response was that bigger boats are more resistant to the type of knock down gusts that you take on the chin in a smaller boat. That allows time to turn into the wind dumping the gust from your sails. Definitely calls for a change of habit though and I must admit that the fact that my 9.2A has an aft traveler is a comfort to me as the main sheet will be within reach of the wheel. However, I may change my mind if I get chafing on the back of my head from the main sheet while I steer ;-)