Torn out reef eyelet

[John Kagan]

I purchased a new Hunter 260 2002 model last November. This past weekend one of the reef eyelets tore out while setting a reef. It seemed to me to be a workmanship issue. Is this covered under Doyle's 1 year warranty and if so, where should I send it for repair? I also want to add a reef point above the existing one and what should the cost be to add this? Also, I am thinking of adding sunbrella material to the leech of the jib so it is better protected when furled. How much should this cost?regards, J. Kagan

 

[LaDonna Bubak - Catalina Owners]

Reef points

This is not an uncommon issue with any sail. Many folks don't even tie the reef ties specifically for this reason. Those points don't have enough strength to withstand the forces put on them. I don't have contact info for Doyle but next time try not tying them.LaDonna

 

[Mark]

bungee

We use a length of bungee strap to tie up our sail when reefed. It stretches when the wind blows etc etc,

 

[Ron]

Can do it....

As everyone has said, this is not a strength point in your sail, but merely a convienence. Just sew a patch over the tear and put another grommet in it. You can do it with a home sewing machine or by hand. These kind of things happen frequently so you might as well learn to fix them yourself and save the $$$$$$.. If you need help, E me and I'll send you some details and pix... Ron

 

[Bill Colombo]

Reef Points

John, Torn reef points are a relativelycommon problem. Luckily they are very easy to repair and any sail loft can do it. They are only there to allow the foot of the main to be tied up out of the way after the reef has been put in. A lot of people don't use them. Make sure that you tie them in AFTER the reef is in and don't forget to untie them BEFORE you shake the reef out. This last point is the usual cause for tearing out the grommet. The intermediate reef patch is not designed to handle any great loading. Adding a second reef is a good idea if you plan to do any extended cruising or if you sail in a heavy air area such as SF Bay. It should cost about $100 for your sail. We charge about $5.00/ft for adding a UV Cover.Bill C.