[Public-List] Downhaul for headsail

[crufone at comcast.net]

Gord wrote, 

I do the same and find it indispensable for singlehanding or in rough 
weather.  I tie the line to the top hank to avoid jamming it when 
hauling down. (Learned this trick from Phil Beigel.)  With the downhaul 
and sheet cleated tight, the sail won't go overboard or climb back up 
the forestay. 

The only problem I've had with this is when I try to raise the genoa 
having forgotten to release the downhaul. :-) 



Gord, 

Explain why it is an advantage to fasten the downhaul to the upper hank instead of the thimble or grommet at the head of the sail?  I have tried this with the small headsail on a Typhoon and haven't had any problems with the 1/8" downhaul line jamming. I have noticed as you have that raising the sail is much easier when the downhaul is released!! 

Michael