David Gerr Jib Downhaul on CP16

[Brian Driscoll]

Hello, I am looking for advice on installing the jib downhaul designed by David Gerr on my 1991 CP 16/3. Has anyone done this on their CP 16? I am particularly interested in the blocks that are used. I would like advice on the size,type & brand of blocks. Also, any problems encountered or tips that anyone has would be appreciated. Also....... Rolly Tasker just sent me an e-mail that they are having a sale on their sails. Check it out if you are considering new sails.  Brian

[Gerry]

This topic has been covered in this forum before.  Look it up in the archives.  Works well.  I followed the advice and no longer worry about going forward to douse my jib.

[Duckie]

I use a jib downhaul on my weekender whenever the wind gets "sporting".  So far, I simply run a line from the head of the sail down to a block attached at the foot of the sail and back to the cockpit.  I just looked up the Gerr downhaul setup and will definitely add it to the downhaul for the weekender as well as my CP 16 III.  When I haul down the jib with the simple set up I have, I first have to center the clew so that the sail doesn't go over the side.  The sail still fills a bit but it isn't a big problem.  The Gerr set up will take care of that completely.  Brilliant. 

From my experience with my homemade downhaul, I would suggest that you use the lightest line that you think you can get away with, along with appropriately sized blocks.  You may even be able to get by with thimbles at the midpoint of the luff.  You will want to be careful of chafe at that point, so minimizing the hardware there will pay off.  You may even be able to make the turning points out of simple loops of line.  When I use my downhaul the jib is always luffing so there isn't a lot of pressure on the line which might require blocks. 

This is a great idea.  I can't wait until spring to try it.

Al