Lowering the Boom

[philip8614]

I recently found a really good deal on a new mainsail but is a bit too long (leech and luff). I have tried several things to accommodate the extra length and don't want to return it because of the good price I got.
I want to lower my boom attachment point on the mast about 3-4" to accommodate the extra length and some hardware I plan to use to connect the loose-footed mainsail to the boom. My question is with this effect the way the boat sails? or any other problems I'm not thinking of other than the boom swinging through the cockpit space; and lifeline/stanchion clearance , and pop top clearance, jeez? Thanks in advance

[budgates]

The biggest issue that I see is that the clearance for the pop-top is pretty close as it is. If you're only talking 3 or 4 inches you might be able to raise the halyard block that much.

[philip8614]

That might be a better alternative. I will take a look at that

[Tomfoolery]

Or cut the top off the sail, and reattach the headboard. Sort of a musclehead style.

[Crikey]

Or cut the top off the sail, and reattach the headboard. Sort of a musclehead style.

This seems to be the most practical (and cheapest) alternative.

[mastreb]

As a general theory, you should modify the sail for the boat, not the boat for the sail

[Ixneigh]

Concur with headboard mod. If you only need four inches. Cut it off and pop rivet on two pieces of thick aluminum. Seal all cut edges with heat then drill a hole for your headboard shackle pin.
Ix

[philip8614]

Thank you. Probably saved me a BIG headache. Muscle head it is. It has full battens so this should work well.