Thanks for the reply, Bob. Actually, I was

Posted By: Gary, 2023, Milwaukee
Date: 9/12/07 7:14a.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

In Response To: outhaul (Bob Frak)

'back burner' thinking something along the lines of the 4:1 'external' picture on that website, although modified somewhat. Seems to me that there should be a way to get a (2023 specific) mechanical advantage with an external package. Limiting factor, of course, is there's not much 'naked' boom available when reefed, and you certainly don't want to have to reef the main over blocks and a cam cleat. (I'm thinking external only because of ease, time constraints, etc. Certainly internal would be more suitable for the furling main/boom) My foot is seamed. When I play with it, I can both tighten (flatten) and also add depth to the lower several feet of the sail. At present, I have the sail flattened, as I prefer sailing up wind. There's a noticeable 'flat' to the lower main. If I recall correctly, that 'flat' spot is the lower part of the main, and is easily seen running at an angle along an upper seam, going 'upward' as the flat spot approaches the mast (i.e. from the mast, several feet up the luff, angled down towards the end of the boom). In effect, basically stated, is that the part of the main which flattens, is the entire 'bottom-most' piece of fabric. Is this the 'triangle' of material mentioned? I may get to sail tonight. If so, I shall try to remember to get a snapshot of it. Truth... I have no experience with the outhaul, but readily see the importance of it, and can also appreciate the differing sail shape, even though at present I am only using line to adjust the foot, basically in a 'this seems about right for this wind angle/pressure' sort of way. (Certainly would be easier to 'learn' the intracasies of it, if not having to hold the tiller with my knees, while attempting to un-tie a pretty tight knot, adjust, re-tie knot, etc.) Ah... if that made any sense.