Moonbeam – a novice’s attempt

[Andrew BiggsParticipant @andrewbiggs29914]

After finding that the jib sheets were catching on the front cowl vents I decided to replace them with some "home" made vents. The front three cabin tops/hatches do not to be removable, once the boat is setup. They only need to be removed if something goes wrong with the winch or sheets. So these hatches have been sealed with a smear of vaseline and sealant. I did a test before to check it didn't make a permanent fix but just provided a seal.

Would like to do a test sail but the weather has not been very cooperative recently.

[geconParticipant @gecon]

You may need a smooth dome shape to completely prevent snagging but test it out before you change anything. You don't need water or good weather. An electric fan or hairdryer (on cool setting) will do the trick, in the comfort of your own home

George

[Andrew BiggsParticipant @andrewbiggs29914]

After a second sail – things certainly worked better. However, I found another point of "snagging" for the jib sheets. There are two mooring bollards on the foredeck, these have small horizontal bars sticking out, so are ideal for ropes to catch on. These were replaced by a plain round bollard, which I'd machined from brass and painted white, to match the other deck fittings. I was also unhappy with the design of the small forward deck hatch, so redesigned this so it is lower and more secure. A third sail will hopefully prove problem free.

[Author]

Posts