[alberg30] mechanical boom

[Chester & Jan Koop]

From: "Chester & Jan Koop" <cjk at tir.com>

Dick,
Alberg 30's originally came equipped with a roller reefing main.  The object
was to reduce the area of the mainsail by rolling it around the boom.   This
was accomplished by simultaneously lowering the main and rotating the boom
(using a hand crank) thereby rolling the bunt around the boom.  In theory a
simple concept, however under real-life conditions it was rather difficult
to maintain good sail shape particularly when a deep reef was needed.  It
usually required two crew members to achieve a decent looking/functioning
reef (one to lower sail and rotate the boom and the second to maintain
tension on the leach).

In an effort to improve sail shape, four long slats were frequently attached
to the after end of the boom.  This had the effect of increasing the
diameter of this end of the boom and permitted increased tension on the
leech.

Roller reefing was superceded by slab reefing because it was 1) easier, 2)
produced a better sail and 3) could be accomplished quicker with only one
crew member.

Chet Koop
Tanagroa #445

--------------------------- ONElist Sponsor ----------------------------

       GET WHAT YOU DESERVE! A NextCard Platinum VISA: 
Get an APR as low as 9.9 Fixed & NO annual fee! Apply online today!  
 <a href=" http://clickme.onelist.com/ad/nextcard9 ">Click Here</a>

------------------------------------------------------------------------

 939259881.0