[Public-list] sail shape (was: two 306's?)

[FINNUS505 at aol.com]

In a message dated 10/20/2004 1:28:27 PM Eastern Standard Time,  
gdinwiddie at alberg30.org writes:

I  learned that lesson from experience.  I was amazed at the  difference
when we got a new main.

Another thing I've learned is  that you can let half the main luff, and
the boat still sails.  This  is a good way to keep the boat upright when
the wind picks up--kinda like  scandalizing the main of a gaffer.  If
your main is too full, it may  work better than changing the headsail.

-  George



This is the Lee Sails main we bought in '98, ..........and didn't get to  try 
out until last season, so it only has two seasons on it. While the handwork  
was excellent, evidently the material is not the best. I was warned by friends 
 at the time of this when I bought the sail. It was 300 bucks cheaper than 
the  closest American loft was offering at the Strictly Sail show in '98 when we 
 ordered it. Next time.....
 
Letting the sail luff significantly as a higher wind sailing  technique; I 
know it is effective in the short term, but it  probably further degrades the 
sail material and shape in the only slightly  'longer-short' term, and we are 
going to try to get a couple of more seasons out  of this sail :)
 
Funny story; first week in September the oil pump failed on the Volvo  MD2C, 
and there is significant internal damage. Geeezz.  After  doing alot of 
research we decided to find another rebuilt engine to replace it,  and take the old 
engine apart and keep it in the basement for parts. The boat  had no low oil 
pressure alarm when we got her, and now I know I should have  added one early 
on. This is my first boat with an inboard, and it is a constant  learning 
experience.................but I still love the boat. :) The more we  sail her, the 
more Rona and I appreciate the design.
 
Thx,
Lee

 1098295127.0