Snapfurl opinions, questions

[Tom Wootton]

I plan to convert to roller reefing this summer, and didn't find much in the archives on Schaefer's Snapfurl system for smaller boats. Practical Sailor (Apr 15, 2000) rated it a best buy, and the price is right. Schaefer recommends it for boats up to 24' and headstays to 31', but I would think that the fractional rig on the 26 would make it acceptable for that model. Any 26/260 (or 23.5/240) owners using Snapfurl? Is headstay shortening required to allow the drum to clear the deck? How do you access the turnbuckle to unstep the mast? How much more complicated is trailering? Is the optional drum-mounted fairlead kit a good idea?Thanks in advance

 

[Dick]

How about Superfurl?

Don't know anything about Snapfurl, but I got some info on Superfurl the other day with a good video included on its features. Check out www.superfurl.com. It runs about $1500 and comes complete with a kit for converting your headsail by yourself. Tell me the diameter of your turnbuckle thread and headstay length and I'll look up the exact cost. I think they said they were running an early season sale.

 

[Tom Wootton]

interesting, but...

...it seems a little pricey. Rigging Only (see link below) has Snapfurl for under $400, plus $131 for a lead block kit to run the control line to the cockpit. I estimate about $300-$500 to have my sail altered, which includes UV protection along the leech and foot, plus a foam wedge sewn into the luff to maintain reefed sail shape. I'm not sure if Superfurl works for reefing, and they don't address UV protection on their website unless I missed it. I've e-mailed them some questions; I'll let you know what their answers are.I'm currently limiting my choice to systems with continuous plastic foils because I've heard that segmented metal foils (like Superfurl's) are easily damaged when stepping and unstepping the mast. I'd like to hear from anyone using a metal foil system on a trailersailed boat about their experience.

 

[Tom Wootton]

CDI users-do you remove the sail to lower...

...the mast? I guess only CDI gives you that option, since it has its own halyard, and the boat's jib halyard is needed to lower the mast. Does anyone trailer with the jib furled on the stay? Also, how much trouble is it to alter luff tension on the CDI?

 

[Joe Baker]

Leave on

For the several years we had our 26, we left the jib on the CDI while trailering. We tied the mast raising pole to the mast and used it to support the furler.