I am wondering how you guys feel about the jib sheet lead block tracks that are commonly mounted on the gunwale next to the cockpit. I need to replace mine due to one being broken. Should I re-install such a device or go without the track and instead put a block on a padeye for the sheet lead?
Personally I like the look without the track, but I'm new to sailing (at least to tweeking all I can from my sails) and want to hear from you all on this idea. Thanks.
The tracks provide more versatility in trimming the headsail, so I'd suggest a replacement track. If you change the size of your headsail (including furling), you'll want to change the location of where the block is, and a track is an easy way to do that. There's a good reason the factory installs tracks. Not to say you couldn't do something else, but tracks make sense and generally work pretty well.
As pdx23p said, you'll want to adjust the block position depending on the size of the head sail. If you don't have roller furling, and you only have 1 size head sail (and you don't plan on adding more), then a fixed block would be fine (and a cleaner look). But if you have roller furling or plan to use different sized head sails, then you'll want to keep the tracks.