sail slugs and shackles

[Mark]

I'd like to put slugs& shackles on my 22'er. I've seen the small ones with a screw that you poke thru the sail right behind the luff rope, and larger ones attached thru a grommet, and sewn on slugs thru grommets. My question is this: Is there a "best way" for a casual cruiser? Are the small "screw type" strong enuf for the 22? I saw them on a 19' Potter, but that is a smaller sail/boat. Opinions?

 

[Mike Colucci]

I've olny used grommets

I just replaced a few sail slugs on my 22. It has grommets running up the sail. I replaced the slugs and attached them with plastic shackles that came with the slugs. A friend of mine uses parachute cord to attach his slugs to his main. They seem to withstand lots pressure on them. I would be afraid of poking a hole into the sail to add slugs.

 

[Mark]

slugging it out

The original sail has slugs & grommets. The newer Doyle (I believe) sail does not. Just the luff rope. I, too am concerned about putting holes in the sail-grommets or otherwise. btw, does your slugged sail come down under its own weight? I haven't sailed this boat yet. Still doing repairs.(Which is why it was so cheap.)

 

[Mike Colucci]

no problem with slugs

I've had no problem with any sail coming down with slugs and grommets. the only time they bind up is when the main is all down and I want to tie up the main..but is not a big hassle. I put some graphite powder on the slugs and it has made them smooth running up and down the mast. I don't know if this will harm them ( I don't think so) but it worksMike C.

 

[James]

Ask Rudy

Mark, If you have any questions I suggest that you consult "The O'Day Expert" - Rudy Nickerson at D and R Marine, Telephone: 508/644-3001If you call Rudy he will help you out with advice and has everything you might need for an O'Day at very reasonable prices.I was in Rudy's shop on Friday and was amazed at the selection of slugs and the shackles whcih secure them to sail, both plastic and metal..