I have a problem with my Dutchman system in that when I release my topping lift to allow for better luff edge my boom will hit the top of our tall dodger when tacking. My Dutchman flaking lines are attached to my topping lift. Keeping the topping lift tight enough to lift the boom slightly causes the Dutchman lines to ruin the mainsail shape. My question for the group is this:
Should I cut the sail to allow for proper luff edge distance and add a separate Dutchman flaking line that will allow for adjustment of the topping lift when sailing off the wind?
Should I cut the sail to allow for proper luff edge distance and add a separate Dutchman flaking line that will allow for adjustment of the topping lift when sailing off the wind?