new mainsail

[isabel98]

I recieved my new mainsail today and it came with the dutchman system. I wasn't ready for this 'cause I have lazy jacks. The question is do I get rid of the lazy jacks and use the dutchman, or vice versa? Or do I use both? I havent brought the sail down to the boat yet, But I don't think the Dutchman will install easily because I don't think I have a halyard type topping lift. I'm not going to lower the mast to reach the point on the topping lift that the instructions for the dutchman indicate. Either way, the new sail will be used for this wednesday. It is a waste, but it seems easier to remove the dutchman hardware and just use the sail. My lazyjacks always worked well for me. I guess I should have specified this to Catalina, but oh well, no turning back now. Also, This is a full batten sail, and when I put the battens in, they stick out about an inch and a half (I have ensured that they are pushed in to the end of the sleeve). I could easily trim them or use them like this. The extra length is still easily secured by the velcro flaps at the end of the sail. It will work perfectly like this, but I just didn't know if maybe it's routine to trim the battens. Any thoughts? I would really appreciate some insight, thanks in advance. BD

[Stu Jackson]

i98 BD

Seems to be your choice, but the Dutchman is just mono-filament line thru the sail, so what's the question?  Keep the LJs and forget the DM.  There,are, of course, many folks who would "insist" that you install the DM for ease of mainsail furling.  Gee, what a choice to have to make, you are in the best position of anyone we've heard of for a long time.

Why not try BOTH out and see what works for you?

Do you want a topping lift forever, or do you have a rigid boom vang?

Not sure what you meant about Dutchman "system."

Sure, cut & trim the battens, but make sure, like, "measure twice or more, then, and only then, cut."  Use a file to round all of the edges of the battens, especially the ends under the velcro.

Have a great sailing season.

Stu

[isabel98]

Thanks Stu, I'm gonna ditch the dutchman, besides, my sailcover is cut for the lazyjacks. I'll leave the battens the way they are for now, it doesn't look bad and the velcro still closes nicely. Tuesday morning 8AM!! first race wednesday night..:) :)