Spinnaker

[justsomeguy]

I have the beads or parral on mine, but this is used only to set up the spinnaker as I understand it. The tack Downhaul sheet runs through a block which is attached to the bowsprit via a pulpit clamp and quick link. The sheet runs back to the cockpit. Once the spinnaker shute is lifted and it is full of wind, then the parral is released to let the spinnaker fly. The aim is to keep the spinnaker horizontal and let it fly like a kite in front of the boat, pulling the boat. Mine spinnaker is a Asymetrical and is positioned either port or starboard pending the wind.

Interesting. So someone would have to go forward to release the beads?

 

[cephius (Dave)]

Light winds only

Still, the base of that part would be under HUGE load on a reach. I figure it breaks in 12 knots on the beam. If you could triangulate the base with two upper legs (instead of the one) to the sides of the pulpit it would be much stronger.

The H260 jib does poorly in light winds. That's when the aspin comes out. The jib works fine in moderate to heavy winds. I reef the main in 12 knots. I would never fly my aspin in those conditions.

My hardware handles the load fine for the conditions I'm willing to fly that sail in.

 

[cephius (Dave)]

Bowsprit

What would be the benefit of a bowsprit as discussed in the thread?

Fred, the main reason I added a bowsprit is for when the spinnaker is not being used. It allows me to keep the spinnaker halyard in place without fouling the jib when furling.

A secondary benefit is it prevents the spinnaker from knocking the bow light lens off.

 

[twodzusfittings]

"So someone would have to go forward to release the beads?"

Yes. I let Ray hold the Tiller while I go forward. Ray and Mae are my constant companions when sailing solo, which is most of the time.

Here is Ray: ST 2000 Raymarine Auto Tiller Pilot
Here is Mae: West Marine Offshore Auto Inflatable Life Vest with Harness.

 

[cephius (Dave)]

Yes. I let Ray hold the Tiller while I go forward. Ray and Mae are my constant companions when sailing solo, which is most of the time.

Here is Ray: ST 2000 Raymarine Auto Tiller Pilot
Here is Mae: West Marine Offshore Auto Inflatable Life Vest with Harness.

+1