piecing together a head sail

i realize that the complete system is different between a spin, genoa, reacher, and screecher. but it would seem however that some of the stuff could be used with any of these systems. things like the cheek/waist standup blocks, sheets, and pole for example. how long do i want this pole? also if anyone could send a pic of a rope tang on an 18 that would help. i think a genny type system would be furling, or a spin in a sack. any detailed pics to help, would ummm help... thanks

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eric, sail #205

What are you asking exactly? I can't figure out what you're trying to do from you're message...

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1985 Hobie 16 86068

i haven't decided on which type of sail i would like to put up front. put question is: couldn't the same pole be used for either? i want to start shopping for used stuff that i can use should i go either way. how long is a proper length pole for my H18?

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eric, sail #205

I think that the "proper" length for a spinnaker pole was about 8 ft 6 inches (someone correct if that's wrong please).

As far as head sail, look at a video of a F18 with Spinnaker up, it's really more of a reacher (i think that's the term), as you can go at many wind angles, not just downwind, it's also asymetrical, so it tacks / gybes like a genoa...

In theory you probably could attach a big big genoa to the pole, and maybe even make it furling.

I think the rope tang is a piece of rope that goes around the mast (through a hole you drill in the plastic sleeve that the mainsail go up), and ties up at the front. I'm not sure if you have to attach a metal tang a bit above it for added strength (if someone knows if you need that or not would be nice)

good luck

oh and if you're going for a spinnaker (f18 type, but for H18) - should look at Kelly Hanson sail's offer - few posts back

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1985 Hobie 16 86068

the vid really looks like fun... but its like watching a ferrari or something on speed channel then going to garage to get in my s-10 blazer. i had no idea that you can shoot or douse a spin that fast now.
i did see the spin offer, and it is intriguing. my point is i think i have found a pole(alum) just under 10 foot for decent money(100 bucks)
as far as the rope tang goes, i can see where it would reduce a lot of torsional load. but i really want to see just how this is drilled and attached.

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eric, sail #205

It's very amazing how fast they can snuff the spins!

Make sure the pole is strong enough - will be under a lot of pressure.

I have a fiberglass tube from http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-tube-rod.htm . It's a 2 inch diameter, 1/4 inch thick walls, for 70$. Unbeatable strength for sure, I can't bend it even if i sit in the middle and balance it on two chairs. 8ft, I"m also making a spin setup, and that's what i'll be using.

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1985 Hobie 16 86068

this pole is 9'6" and is a used spin pole so it should be strong enough.

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eric, sail #205