Spinnaker kit install instructions link posted here

I purchased the Hobie kit this past winter and did a lot of research on the install but it seemed there were no good instructions and everyone complained about the Hobie supplied instructions that left a lot to be desired. I read all the posts on spinnaker install and took notes on everyone's experiences which I tried to include in my own install. I found reference to instructions for install that were originally drafted by OttawaDave a few years back but I don't think they were ever posted anywhere. I contacted Dave and he emailed his instructions to me. They were very comprehensive and included lots of pictures. I have since updated them to include my own experience and advice. A copy of the instructions can be found here:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zx0 ... sp=sharing

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2002 Getaway - SOLD in 2018 "Cheshire Cat"
2016 AI - Bought used 3.18.23 "Crabby Puppy"

Good on you for posting the instructions!!! I had my dealer install the spinkit on my new Getaway before delivery. It saved a lot of grief.

That was nicely done, Keith.

I'm sure that folks who follow and buy the Hobie kit will be appreciative.

I can't help but say, though, that the complexity and expense of this kit is unnecessary if all you want is a spinnaker on the boat. Using the existing mast hound and the existing front crossbeam instead of a sprit makes it possible to install a modest (100+ sq ft) asymspin with little or no effort. Doesn't take away from your effort, though; so kudos.

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R/Thom
SeaRail 19
Triak
BMW C600
Formerly Getaway with Custom Spinnakers
Formerly raced F24 Mk II

It's really not that hard. The worst part is trying to figure out where everything goes and how to route the lines. Decent instructions and pictures make that so much easier. Well, that and bending the new mast tang to fit nice and snug. Otherwise it's just about 20 rivets which I had never done before. Bought a rivet tool online for like $40 and practiced the riveting first on some scrap aluminum. Once I got the hang of it, no problems.

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2002 Getaway - SOLD in 2018 "Cheshire Cat"
2016 AI - Bought used 3.18.23 "Crabby Puppy"

I like the Hobie spinkit. Not complicated at all and the snuffer system works like a charm. I also like the idea of the bridle to support the spinnaker pole.

I originally installed my halyard spring block on the spin pole (step 7, option b) because I liked the idea of drilling less in my crossbar and I liked the look more. However, I kept having problems with the spin halyard getting tangled around the top of the jib when furling. I have since moved it to the crossbar (step 7, option a) and it works perfectly.

Nice job! And thank you for sharing!

It seems to be working out fine for me so far. Wonder what is different in our setups that caused your tangling issue. Maybe my halyard spring block is further forward or aft.

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2002 Getaway - SOLD in 2018 "Cheshire Cat"
2016 AI - Bought used 3.18.23 "Crabby Puppy"

I can't take the credit. OttawaDave wrote the original. I just added to it and posted it. I never would have spent the time if I had to start from scratch.

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2002 Getaway - SOLD in 2018 "Cheshire Cat"
2016 AI - Bought used 3.18.23 "Crabby Puppy"

Matt Miller, why doesn't Hobie buy this document from OttawaDave and or Keith and include it/post it? It's approximately 1 million times better than the single page instruction, hand drawn, that came with my spin kit from the factory.

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Yet another Bob!
"Firefly" - 2012 Hobie Getaway with wings and spinnaker
"Sparky" - 1978 Sunfish (OK, it's not a Hobie, but it's a fun little craft)
Too many canoes and kayaks

My Hobie dealer gives out copies of the instructions. You would think that Hobie would make the effort to supply coherent instructions with their products.

I installed the H16/getaway spinnaker kit on my 2020 getaway about 2 months ago. I just wanted to say thank you for the instructions. They were great and I would have had a tough time without them.
Currently working on modifying an all aluminum H16 mast. The getaway comp tip mast has a lot of sideways bend under load even with the main sheet and traveler in tight. Sailing down wind is much more fun now.
I wish I could attach a pic here.

Not sure that changing to a H16 mast will make any difference. Neither mast has spreaders to prevent the mast from bending under compression.

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R/Thom
SeaRail 19
Triak
BMW C600
Formerly Getaway with Custom Spinnakers
Formerly raced F24 Mk II

The H16 (non comp-tip) mast is a uniform diameter and doesn't taper towards the top like the comp-tip. Perhaps that would help the bend?

Independent of bend, the H16 mast will be stronger and is also lighter. The spinnaker puts a lot of force at the top of the mast and the comp-tip mast can fail at the joint. At least that's my experience.

Did you use a different distance for the spin mast tang?