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 Catalina/Capri 25/250 Sailor's Forums
 General Sailing Forum
 Topping Lift question (function)		  New Topic  Topic Locked
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frankr
Captain

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256 Posts
Initially Posted - 06/11/2003 :  22:16:00  Show Profile
Other that keeping the boom from falling into the cockpit when the main sail is down, is there any adjustment that needs to be done to it when the main sail is up? Should one take up the slack with the sail raised and then release it back when the main is lowered? I can't see where it would have any effect on the shape of the main. -
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Bill Holcomb
Admiral

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USA
769 Posts
Response Posted - 06/12/2003 :  09:27:26  Show Profile
Hi Frank,

The function of the topping lift is to keep theaft end of the boom from dropping into the cockpit and beating up the crew and/or the boat when you raise, lower or reef the mainsail.

The topping lift should not have any affect on the mainsail shape. After you hoist the sail, slack the topping lift line somewhat, then snug it back up before lowering or reefing.

Bill Holcomb - C25 Snickerdoodle #4839
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ssteakley
Captain

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USA
467 Posts
Response Posted - 06/12/2003 :  09:45:50  Show Profile
The topping lift is used to help trim the Mainsail in light air. Tensioning the topping lift can creat desired shape in light air..it should be slack in heavy air....also do not forget the Outhaul...same thing loose in light air to help shape the main and tight in heavier winds...If you are just cruising around it may not be worth the extra attention, but when racing...every second counts
Steve

<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b3dc32b3127cce94d57c8cff3b0000001010" border=0> Moon Chaser #385WK <img src="http://www.catalina25-250.org/forum/forum1.gif" border=0>
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Buzz Maring
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
1774 Posts
Response Posted - 06/12/2003 :  09:49:38  Show Profile
Hi Frank,

I've been trying to learn more about sail trim, so I've been picking Derek Crawford's brain a bit. He has already taught me lot, but I've got a LONG way to go ... I'm really lame when it comes to sail trim.

Anyway, 'seems to me that Derek mentioned that the topping lift can be used to get a better mainsail shape in light air. The idea is to use the topping lift to raise the boom a bit so the weight of the boom doesn't flatten the main ... <img src=icon_smile_question.gif border=0 align=middle>

Derek ... did I get that right? Help!

Well, Steve posted basically the same idea while I was composing the above post ... 'sounds like I got the gist of Derek's lesson.

Buzz Maring
<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b3df23b3127cce9306a9b3abad0000001010" border=0>
~~Freya~~
C-25 SK/SR #68

Edited by - buzz maring on 06/12/2003 09:52:28
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Derek Crawford
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
3324 Posts
Response Posted - 06/12/2003 :  10:15:42  Show Profile
Well done Steve & Buzz! We can now proceed to Sail Trim 201! <img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle>
Derek

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TRFK#2262"This Side Up"
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frankr
Captain

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256 Posts
Response Posted - 06/12/2003 :  10:56:48  Show Profile
I did see one referal in light air that you can snugg up the topping lift to get more of a bulge/pocket in the main sail (along with the outhaul. And I did see on other instance where if the topping lift is flopping around enough to hit the leech it should be snugged up some. Otherwise I haven't seen much in print anywhere
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Oscar
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
2030 Posts
Response Posted - 06/12/2003 :  11:41:08  Show Profile  Visit Oscar's Homepage
Although mentioned above it was not emphasized....when reefing outside (six foot waves, wind kicking up to 20 knots, now you have to put the second reef in , boat moving wildly, green water and foam flying everywhere.....eh, I'm getting carried away).... Point is, you then take the topping lift and pull the boom up about a foot and a half. Tighten the main sheet and it stays put. Now you can bring the (new) clew and tack and all the reefing ties down to the boom without any tension on them, so you can put in a nice clean tight reef, let go the topping lift and presto...on you go.

Oscar
<img src="http://www.woodenshoemusic.com/Images/familypics/LKforumshot.jpg" border=0>
Lady Kay 250 WB #618
In the driveway in Behtlehem, PA ready to go anytime.
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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.