3:1 - Anybody Using 5/16" ?

3:1 is working for me in my proof-of-concept implementation - using el-cheapo Home Depot 1/4" rope.....and I assume it will keep working once I lay out the big bucks for proper line.

Somebody recommended 5/16" for the mainsheet because it was easier on the hands.

I have been using 3/8" in my 2:1 setup and do find it easier on the hands.

But I know for sure that 3/8 does not run freely enough for 3:1.

So how about 5/16" (I am guessing that's 8mm)... ?

Is anybody actually using 5/16ths or 8 mm with 3:1 ?

_________________
2015 AI in "Dune" - "The Grey Pig"
2017 Trailex 450 Trailer
Pre-September 2015 cradles
(anybody want to buy a slightly-used AI SpinKit?)
eMail: [email protected]

i have been using 3:1 for most of the summer on my TI, i am using the factory shipped line and blocks, even the factory line can get slowed way down when the wind is light and sometimes i must help it to let more line out. but with medium to high winds it works great and is a bit easier on my hands..

Now I have both: 1/4" and 5/16ths.

Both work well enough but each has it's own tradeoffs.

1/4 runs more freely - especially when furling.

5/16ths is significantly easier on the hands, but harder to furl....I am glad to have gone over to 1/4" furling line because I think the original stuff would really bite my hands when furling the 5/16ths. Migth even relieve the hole in the furling drum and try 5/16ths there too.

Right now I am favoring the 5/16ths sheet.....but that could change after I A/B the two sizes a few more times.

FWIW, the required length is 39 feet - determined by what is needed to completely furl the sail and not, as I had incorrectly expected, to let the sail all the way out on a run.

_________________
2015 AI in "Dune" - "The Grey Pig"
2017 Trailex 450 Trailer
Pre-September 2015 cradles
(anybody want to buy a slightly-used AI SpinKit?)
eMail: [email protected]