Lowering Jib

[hinmo]

I saw this topic posted recently (can't find it with SEARCH) and can't get the terminology correct, but basically it was how to run a second line up with the sail (jib) so you could force the dropping of the sail easily (and probably from the cockpit).

I am finding it difficult to drop the headsail, while underway. Each time it comes partially down and needs assistance at the fore stay. I have the halyard run aft.

I could attach a second line to the head of the sail (the other the halyard) and somehow feed it down without getting tangled, but would then need a system of blocks to get to the cockpit.

Any ideas or past posts appreciated.

Thanks

(ps - dropped the jenny in the drink trying to bring it down solo while underway yesterday.....dont want that again)

[Shawn]

Jib downhaul is the terminology you are looking for. You mount a block near the base of the forestay and then just run the line outside your stanchions. If you only have one jib attach the downhaul to the top hank on your jib. If you change headsails attach it to the halyard. Some people suggest weaving the downhaul between the hanks but that adds to much friction IME.

Have a way of cleating the downhaul tight after the sail is down to prevent it from self launching again. If you tighten up on both jib sheets you should be able to keep the sail on deck until you bag the sail.

Shawn

[Citroen/Dave]

Another variation is the "David Gerr jib downhaul".  It too has friction problems that might be reduced by using a very slick line to reduce the friction (or a sprayed on friction reducer).  It bunches the clew towards the head stay as the jib is pulled down to keep wind from catching and blowing the doused jib around and overboard.  The downhaul line is run through the clew on its way up to the head, leaving and returning the luff at the same point about half way up the luff.  That point has two small blocks shackled to a jib hank - one on either side of the jib - so that the downhaul line can find its way to the clew on one side of the jib and return to the head stay on the other.  That exercise, the David Gerr jib downhaul, has the most value on larger jibs where there is more fabric to flop around in the wind.

I would forgo the "David Gerr jib down haul" on the standard size jib and use either simpler approach that Shawn described above.

[Craig]

Exactly so Shawn. If you have lifelines you can attach netting or lacing to keep the jib contained nicely. On my old Seidelmann sloop I never messed with the doused jib until I was tied up. I had a slotted toerail and lifelines and just laced para cord between the lifelines and toerail to form a kind of net. Worked like a charm. Taut halyards keep the doused jib under control nicely.

[atrometer]

I have a line run from the cockpit (that can be cleated in the cockpit) through a block near the base of the forestay.  When raising the mast I use it to connect to the forestay to hold the mast in position while I go forward to pin it. Then I connect it to the halyard (and the sail) and use it as a downhaul.  Not my idea but it works great!

[hinmo]

ok - some good recommendations - gotta do something

btw - many threads have stated the CP16 wont move with just the main.....mine seemed to go quite well (fast enough to put a charge into me coming into the mooring!)

[Citroen/Dave]

Hinmo,
Reduced to just the main, a C16 moves very well (depending on the wind speed) especially if you have a hydrofoil rudder.  The old flat plate rudder stalls easily and early especially in tight quarters when tiller movement is likely to be too abrupt, creating drag and loss of control.

[hinmo]

Dave - thats correct, I do have the IDA rudder, tacks fine and I guess its responsible for more speed

[Short Sale]

I realize that this is a VERY late reply, but I decided to post anyway because others will search this website for the same information.

I made a simple jib downhaul with a small block (or pulley) and some line that anyone can duplicate and use.  It works great and keeps me off of the foredeck.  My original post, with the specifics and a few photos for clarification, can be found here:

http://cpyoa.geekworkshosting.com/forum/index.php?topic=6681.0

To clear skies and gentle wind,

George

[hinmo]

Thanks George