26s Original Jib Sheet Routing?

[KingRichard]

Is this how the original jib sheet on a 26s was routed? The second fairlead seems a little unnatural.

Blue, 1st Fairlead - Outside lifeline, inside stays
Red, 2nd Fairlead - Inside stanchion, but outside is almost as good
Yellow, Jib Sheet Clamcleat

Thanks, couldn't find it in the manual or with a forum search.

[Stickinthemud57]

The fairlead at the blue arrow is for the standard jib, with sheets run inside the lifelines. (100% or thereabout)

The fairlead at the red arrow is for the for the Genoa (or 150% jib, if you prefer) with the sheets run outside the lifelines.

[KingRichard]

The fairlead at the blue arrow is for the standard jib, with sheets run inside the lifelines. (100% or thereabout)

The fairlead at the red arrow is for the for the Genoa (or 150% jib, if you prefer) with the sheets run outside the lifelines.

That's what I had been doing, but have been experiencing a lot of lee helm. So I routed it outside the lifelines, which seemed to help. Also, unless I use the second fairlead the sheet doesn't line up well with the cleat. That clamcleat is mounted at about a 30 degree angle; which tough to see from the picture. I'll try it without using the 2nd fairlead next time I'm out. Thanks!

And yes, I also use that 2nd fairlead with the Genoa.

[Stickinthemud57]

Before I put tracks on and went to a different rig for my foresail, I found that the forward fairlead, used with the standard jib, did a fairly good job. The problem is, any fixed fairlead position for a foresail is a compromise. Ideally, you want a different position depending on how close to the wind you are sailing. Generally speaking, you want the fairlead more forward for sailing close hauled and more aft when on a close reach or beam reach.

Not liking the standard arrangement I installed swivel cleats for the jib sheets. Makes things a whole bunch easier.

[KingRichard]

Before I put tracks on and went to a different rig for my foresail, I found that the forward fairlead, used with the standard jib, did a fairly good job. The problem is, any fixed fairlead position for a foresail is a compromise. Ideally, you want a different position depending on how close to the wind you are sailing. Generally speaking, you want the fairlead more forward for sailing close hauled and more aft when on a close reach or beam reach.

Not liking the standard arrangement I installed swivel cleats for the jib sheets. Makes things a whole bunch easier.

Now I'm thinking of how I might modify what I have...

I do find it odd that it seems like I can route the sheet either way, but I can't seem to find reference to it in any manual. Roger typically gave good direction where needed.

Last stupid question about this, am I supposed to be using the wenches and camcleats for the jib sheets?

[Stickinthemud57]

Last stupid question about this, am I supposed to be using the wenches and camcleats for the jib sheets?

Not a stupid question at all, and ask as many questions as you like!

I would say definitely use the camcleats. I'm not sure how else you would secure the jib sheets when sailing.

If you can get wenches to handle your jib sheets, I am jealous.

Using winches, on the other hand, depends mostly on the wind speed. I find it most convenient when single-handing to time the release and tensioning of my jib sheets such that I am getting the jib close hauled while it is still flapping lose as the bow of the boat passes through the wind. It takes practice, and I don't always get it right.

One little hack I employ if I want to bring the jib sheet in, but don't have strength enough to overcome the force of the wind, is to turn up into the wind, let the sails luff for just a second, haul the jib sheet in while it is slack, then turn back off the wind and continue sailing.

Using the winches requires planning and timing, and is best done with one or two crewmembers.

Unrelated but related - if you want to do anything that requires letting go of the tiller while underway, get a device that will hold your tiller in position. My favorite is the Tiller Clutch https://www.cccc.edu/cougarbytes/attach ... Clutch.jpg. Many like the Tiller Tamer.