When to use ratchet on furling main - seldon input

[Ed]

I asked two questions of when you need to use the ratchet on a seldon mast and got a rnage of answers some indication that the continous loop would be enough even in a good blow. I emailed Seldon and got this reply - thought I would share it with others on this forum. Thjis is it verbatum.Use the ratchet when:1. You leave the boat to make certain the sail is secured. Remember to takethe ratchet off before deploying.2. If you use a winch handle on the drive to reef the sail3. If the wind is over 20 knots. This will allow you to reef the sail inbut you will not rely on the endless line to stay tight in the driver.Scott AlexanderNational Sales ManagerSelden Mast Inc781-631-4146Fax 631-4941

 

[Tony]

winch handle

Two things:1. The guys at my marina adjusted the "dogs" which hold in the continuous line ( the blue one)and it does not pop out2. Before you use a winch handle make sure it clears the boom before you find out by smashing your knucles like i did off Worton Creek in 25+kn. when the contiuous line popped off and I was trying to reef in ratchet mode.Tony