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Main Sheet Relocation / Vang Question

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boatgt
Navigator

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117 Posts

Initially Posted - 05/29/2006 : 23:05:57

I am thinking of relocating the traveler and main sheets from the transom to the front of the cockpit. My question is when the main sheet is set more forward is the boom vang as important? I am hoping to be able to sail with the pop top up and not have to use the vang. Relocating would also let me use a bimini on my tall rig.
Thanks
Gene

Gene
1981 C25 TR/FK
East TN

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cclark
Navigator

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USA
104 Posts

Response Posted - 05/30/2006 : 02:09:06

My PO set up the traveler and Main sheet this way. If you are single handing, it is quite handy and works well. The downside is that the Main sheet is almost always in the way of cabin entry/exit, and if you have any body on board that is just along for the ride, they are always in the way in the cockpit.
I solved this problem by refitting the traveler and Main sheet to be able to shift from the forward position to the OEM position quickly, depending on my crew.
As to the boom vang question, I think it is just as important. Downwind I still use my vang the same amount.
Cheers,
Chris

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Brooke Willson
Admiral

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USA
983 Posts

Response Posted - 05/30/2006 : 07:44:57

Gene, if you look in the C25 Tech Tips and click on the bimini, you'll see my set up for a TR bimini, in which I relocated the main sheet exactly as you are pondering. I like the arrangement very much. Yes, I still use the boom vang depending on the point of sail and the conditions -- it does help control sail twist, and if you are running downwind you can use the vang as a gybe preventer by relocating the lower end to a stanchion support or padeye. I put a snapshackle on the lower end of the vang for easy relocation or, when raising the top, to disconnect the vang from the mast.

While sailing with the pop-top up when it's hot has advantages, you need to be very careful -- the latch holding the top up is less than secure, and it doesn't take much pressure on the top when going forward to collapse the whole thing. That could sever or break a misplaced finger. Even when using an extra line to secure the top, the raised top hinders going forward. I rarely sail with the top up unless motoring or running a VERY long leg downwind on a hot day.

One solution for crew whose legs are in the way of the sheet and traveler controls is to have them sit aft of the skipper in the cockpit. Another is to get them involved in adjusting the lines -- that will keep them interested and help reduce seasickness. On the other hand, as a big person, I find that the C25 cockpit isn't very comfortable for more than four people -- and ideal for two people (or just one!).

As for cabin entry, my traveler car is usually to one side or the other, and even as a big guy, I have little trouble accessing the companionway. In fact, the mainsheet becomes a useful handhold. The little detour around the mainsheet is less obnoxious to me than ducking the standard location mainsheet on every tack or gybe -- much less sitting in the hot sun without a bimini.

Best of luck on your mods.

Brooke

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atgep
Master Marine Consultant

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1009 Posts

Response Posted - 05/30/2006 : 07:58:48

I put mine in front of the cockpit and love it. It is nearly 4 feet and offers a huge control advantage over the stock position. 2 things made me go for the change.

1. head wrapped in mainsheet during jybe

2. autopilot bracket on tiller getting tangled up with sheet.

I now have a bimini that covers the majority of the cockpit and better sail control.

Tom.

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Rochester
Deckhand

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USA
22 Posts

Response Posted - 05/30/2006 : 12:07:49

I moved my traveler to the front of the cockpit, just in front of the cabin step. Harken makes a track that is a hollow aluminum extrusion. It is strong enough to bridge the footwell without support. I bolted the track to the cockpit seats with stainless fender washers under the seates.

I saw a clever idea for the traveler car control using a single line. Each end of the control line is tied to the traveler car. Jam cleats at each end of the track control the control line.

The arrangement allows you to pull the boom to the center line, and if necessary slightly to windward side of the center line.

The only problem is that the control line will slip out of the jam cleats from time to time. Normally that is only a problem if sailing single handed. If you have a crew, it is easy to control with the crew member.

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boatgt
Navigator

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117 Posts

Response Posted - 06/01/2006 : 21:39:04

I love the detailed pictures Brooke. I am a very visual person and so a picture really is better than a thousand words to me. I think I will do something very similar to your set up. I was hoping that the relocation would make the vang less important but oh well?

I have the power pop top kit (still need to install it too!) so I that should keep the top from crashing down. I am also making curtins that come straight down off the pop top so it can be enclosed and the cabin top winch and halyards lead back can still be used.

I can’t wait to put the bimini on but may have to wait till I find a used Standard rig sail. It would be great to get a new one but it’s not in the budget right now.

Thanks
Gene

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Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.