String tail at clewof new main sail

[SeaDogRun]

I have a 1987 Catalina 27. I just replace the old sale. However the new sail has a string to near the clew. A picture is attached. Can anyone help me identify what it is for? It’s not sick enough to support the sale in anyway or at least I don’t think it is.

 

[Stu Jackson]

It's called a leech (or leach) line. You use it to adjust the leech of the sail Very nice feature.

 

[SeaDogRun]

Thank you! I have the original boom for the boat. Not sure if it has anywhere to connect it to. I don't have a cleat for it. Will probably install one.

 

[Davidasailor26]

That small fitting the line comes out of can usually be used to pinch the line in place itself. No need for any other cleat.

In general you want to start with the leech line fully loose. If the sail leech starts fluttering take the leech line in just enough to stop the flutter. You don’t want to over tighten the leech and put a curl in it - that tends to disturb the airflow and cause unnecessary drag.

 

[SeaDogRun]

Thank you.

 

[shemandr]

It’s function is to preserve the Dacron sailcloth from wearing out due to the flutter. So use it. BTW, flogging of sails also unnecessarily shortens the life of the sail cloth.

 

[SeaDogRun]

Thank you!

 

[DArcy]

It’s function is to preserve the Dacron sailcloth from wearing out due to the flutter.

True, also the flutter disrupts the flow of air so the sail is less efficient when fluttering. Too loose and the sail will flutter, too tight and the leach will hook which also disrupts airflow. It's worth playing with it a bit to get the hand of adjusting the leech line.