Main Sheet Arrangement

I shortened the Mizzen Boom by 9”, which allows it to tack past the structure we built for panels and Davit’s. The Mizzen sail foot is not compromised by this arrangement (though I’m not sure it is an original spec sail).

Peter Garsoe wrote: thanks scott... i'll have to think about that.. it would seem the sheet angles would be heavily loaded close hauled.... i think a vang would be absolutely necessary..
 

Peter, While we do have a vang, the sheeting angle is from the end of the boom to the traveller on the aft deck. When close-hauled I move the traveller to windward if needed. It is just the tail end of the sheet that is routed forward for control from the front of the cockpit.

William Weigel wrote: I am glad to hear that your main sheet traveler is working out. I am also intrigued by the main sheet arrangement running forward to the mast and then back along the deck.

One quick follow-up. We have the factory located main sheet winch on the pad on the port side of the aft cabin top. Does the main sheet traveler interfere with this winch location?

 

Bill, The traveller is installed just aft of the winch on the aft deck. We use that winch for the mizzen controls now (halyard, sheet, reefing, and outhaul) which are all run to a rope clutch on the aft deck. While I can't do a full circle with the winch handle that has never been an issue. With the lighter loads on the mizzen I do most of the work by hand and just use the winch for the final adjustment.

thanks, scott..
that makes more sense then what i was envisioning...

Hi All, I am looking for a a diagram of the original mainsail attachment for a 1971 Whitby Ketch Hull#21. My boat was modified to attach the sheet block to the mizzen mast by a steel cable so it would clear a chair and the bimini and a generator was attached to the spot where I think the original winch was. I want to restore it to the original configuration as it scares me to death that I make an emergency jib and it rips the mizzen mast off. Can someone please send me a picture of their aft port cabin where the main mast attached? Thank you!

The original main sheet attachment was to a single pad eye just forward of the mizzen mast step. A five part block and tackle connected to the end of the boom. The tail end went to a winch and cleat on the port side of the aft deck.

I've seen several boats converted like yours. I've not heard of any problems yet but I am leary of it as well.