Bowsprit Footing

[Heli-Pilot]

Yes, I've thought of that as well. Presently, the Schaefer block at the end of the cranze is of the 360 degree swiveling type and is merely shackled there.

A piece of Dyneema would certainly give it some distance forward of the Profurl drum and mitigate the chafing issue after gybing. My reason for not doing that already, other than aesthetic with the block dangling about on a foot-long piece of rope, is that I didn't want it bashing about when not in use and probably messing up my varnish job. But, with the continuous line more or less permanently reeved, the tension on that should prevent that.

Another thought of function over form is that I might tape off the top portion of the bowsprit and, horror of horrors, sprinkle some fine non-skid into it this Summer; just in case I might have to 'dance' out there for some reason.

I'm anxious to give this a try; gotta head back to Astoria, OR. for another week of work tomorrow, though. Then, if I can just stop spreading that Epifanes Eggshell enamel throughout the galley! Almost finished with that.

Thanks much for your thoughts!

[pelorus32]

I really do feel that work is an embuggerance to pleasure, particularly of the sailing kind!!

As for a heavy block...I have had the same thing and I don't like it one bit. We are about to mount a Wichard low friction ring on a Dyneema strop instead of the block on a Dyneema strop. I'm not sure how well it will work, but this use fits the description: High load, limited travel. That doesn't completely solve the issue but it reduces the weight by about 80% and in a nicer form factor. You might also be able to seize the bottom end of the strop tight to something at the bottom of the furler to keep it upright. See if you can get some Dyneema chafe sleeve and put it over the strop. It is amazingly resistant stuff.

If you get spare time at work here's a nice thread on knots and chafe and splices to keep you happy - it's long! http://forums.sailinganarchy.com/ind...0#entry4510500