Furling line snags

[Bill]

I have a pad eye for the furling line, about 3 feet forward from the cockpit, and the line bunches up at the eye while I am unfurling the jib. Very annoying...especially while sailing solo, and with the main
already hoisted. No problem with crew aboard. Any suggestions? The eye is wide enough for sure. Became hairy (not the line) once or twice as I had to leave the cockpit for a few seconds. Thanks, Bill



meislandbill@yahoo.com

[Neil Gordon]

Right before unfurling the jib, make up the line so that it will run freely. Any line left to its own devices for more than a few minutes will tie itself in knots! Secondly, keep some tension on the furling line as it runs out. This will keep it from fouling and/or you'll catch any snags and tangles in your hand where they're easy enough to manage. Otherwise, you could consider an additional padeye or fairlead within reach of the cockpit.


Regards, Neil
s/v LIQUIDITY
Cape Dory 28 #167



neil@nrgordon.com

[Mitch F.]

One trick that I often use prevents just this sort of snag, though you may not like it. One of my more nautically minded friends detests the practice, but often when I'm about to set the genoa, I throw the whole furling line overboard. Yup, thats right, just toss it all over the side (as long as you are not motoring!) and it will straighten right out and feed through its course as it should. the force of the water will keep it from knotting and untwists it. Its a great little trick that I learned racing stars, except in that case its usually done to keep the halyards from snarling.



mitchfeeney@yahoo.com