Re: Topping lift

DAVID_KAUTZ@HP-Sunnyvale-om5.om.hp.com
Thu, 27 Aug 1998 09:36:50 -0700

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West Wight Potter Website at URL
http://www.lesbois.com/wwpotter/
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The arrangment you describe is very convenient but has one significant
disadvantage: When the mainsail is raised but not filled (as it might
be at the dock or in a calm) the weight of the boom and any tension on
it from the mainsheet is borne by the leech of the sail. This can
stretch the leech prematurely, shortening the useful life of the sail.

Adding a small block (or even just an fairlead, I suppose) at the top of
the mast and a small cleat at the bottom allows for an adjustable topping
lift which may also be left secured to the boom continually and tightened
or slackened as required.

I've read that an adjustable topping lift can also be used to "scandalize"
the main by lifting the boom and spilling air under heavy wind conditions
but I've never tried that myself.



Dave Kautz P-15 #1632

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I have always left my topping lift attached to the end of the boom when
sailing. When the main is raised it takes the load off the topping lift,
leaving enough slack in it (the topping lift) that it doesn't interfere with
the sail shape.

Steve Parsons P15 #2112
Washington,IL