The IP&NCo. has plans for some big water sailing later in the week so work has been heavy these last few days. As I have eluded to in previous posts there are a few nagging issues with the rig that need immediate attention. I have a terrible habit of sailing by the lee. When I head dead downwind the boom sky's then snap jibes. It's a bit of a terrifying experience and not one I enjoy very much. So The Typesetter and I spent the better part of this past Tuesday figuring out how to keep the boom down. At the last sailing session he had jury rigged a quick fix that tamed the boom enough for sailing in moderate winds. But a more permanent solution was needed.
Being the guys we are about eighty percent of our day was spent making things way more complicated then they needed to be while buying parts we ended up not needing. Finally a design was decided on in ten minutes later we had the result.
Tension is maintained with the turnbuckle and it works quite well so far on land. The end result is the boat is now a bit safer and it increases the performance envelope of my boat. The improvement of sail shape, such as it is, is markedly improved. Or at least my sail girts are in the proper orientation now.
The sail itself is on it's last legs. They came with the boat and are the original sails as of August 2008. I've sailed holes in them. Andy has graciously offered to build some new sails.
We have some big water sailing scheduled later in this week and this time I'll be sure to have the camera. Tonight however they are forecasting wind and possible snow in the valley. Winter comes quickly in Western Montana. I've buttoned down the boat as best I can and made some hot cocoa.
I like how she looks like Nautilus from from the 50's Disney movie. One of my favorites! I leave you with a quick tour of the boat.
