Things quickly deteriorated. I periodically looked back towards Miami and suddenly noticed that the Miami skyline seemed to get black very quickly. I assumed (yes, I know
![Embarassed :oops:](./images/smilies/icon_redface.gif)
![Exclamation :!:](./images/smilies/icon_exclaim.gif)
Very quickly the winds kicked up to 16-18 kts, with gusts well above that, and with a torrential rain. There was also a lot of thunder and some lightning. I decided that rather than heave to I should drop the jib and main and start the O/B. I was reasonably close to Key Biscayne and some shallow water and did not want the WSW wind to push me into Key Biscayne.
Made a slow ride back to the sailing club. The rain was so strong I could not discern buildings I have used as "range markers" to guide me back. Thankfully I had my hand held compass and a bit of luck.
I felt very comfortable in Tadpole. I know it sounds silly to say this but she seemed to kind of enjoy the rough water and strong winds. My only concern was getting hit by lightning.
I had checked the weather, winds, tides, etc. It was all supposed to be moderate this afternoon, with less than a 20% rain chance. As my grandmother used to say in broken English "the weatherman, he's a lie"
![Wink :wink:](./images/smilies/icon_wink.gif)
Now to my jib questions.
I have been using what I believe is the original hank on jib from Cape Dory - probably a 100-110 working jib. I am comfortable with this for now. Today, two of the pistons on these piston type brass hanks became frozen on the forestay and I could not get them off. Finally, I used pliers but in doing so managed to pull off two of the screw heads. The other hanks are also showing signs of deterioration. I want to replace all of them.
First, is this something I can/should do myself
![Question :?:](./images/smilies/icon_question.gif)
http://www.bainbridgemarine.co.uk/conte ... ductId=192
Anybody know anything about these particular brass piston type hanks
![Question :?:](./images/smilies/icon_question.gif)
![Question :?:](./images/smilies/icon_question.gif)
Are there any other/better hanks I should buy
![Question :?:](./images/smilies/icon_question.gif)
Second question is specific to Ty Weekenders. There are two fairleads on the port and starboard side. One set of fairleads is located just aft of the lower shroud "chainplates" port and starboard. These fairleads are permanently affixed to the deck. The other set of fairleads are located on the cabin roof port and starboard and are part of a metal track affixed to the roof. These fairleads can be positioned forward and aft on the track.
I have been setting up my jib sheets to run through the permanently affixed fairleads aft of the chainplates and then to a block aft of the winch and then back to the winch. I am "assuming" (yes, again, I know) this is the correct routing of the jib sheet. AM I RIGHT
![Question :?:](./images/smilies/icon_question.gif)
Also, what is the purpose of the fairleads on the track on the cabin roof
![Question :?:](./images/smilies/icon_question.gif)
When is it appropriate to use these fairleads on the metal track instead of the fairleads permanently affixed to the deck
![Question :?:](./images/smilies/icon_question.gif)
I apologize for so many questions. It is a very steep learning curve.