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Rachet Blocks
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Author:  MRL [ Fri Jan 09, 2009 12:39 pm ]
Post subject:  Rachet Blocks

Has anyone tried using a Rachet block on the AI? Does a manual on/off block or auto rachet work better. I have been looking at the Ronstan 40mm orbit blocks and it seems they would be a good choice.

Author:  Pirate [ Fri Jan 09, 2009 1:05 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Rachet Blocks

MRL wrote:
Has anyone tried using a Rachet block on the AI? Does a manual on/off block or auto rachet work better. I have been looking at the Ronstan 40mm orbit blocks and it seems they would be a good choice.

To do what exactly MRL?

Author:  MRL [ Fri Jan 09, 2009 11:42 pm ]
Post subject: 

You use a rachet block in the main sheet system. It reduces the load you feel feel on the sheet so you do not have to cleat the main off and allowes for more rapid response to puffs of wind.

Author:  Pirate [ Sat Jan 10, 2009 3:05 am ]
Post subject: 

I feel the current system of a pulley and cleat is more than sufficient with the small amount of sail we have up and the light loads on the main sheet by comparison to other yachts. Also it is very convenient the way it exits from the sheave up front. I reckon a traveller on the rear aka support bar might be a worthwhile addition if you wanted to get serious but ...who really wants to get serious...Pirate :wink:

Author:  geocacher [ Sun Jan 18, 2009 6:13 am ]
Post subject: 

I've been thinking about doing something like this - for two reasons.

I'm thinking it will be much easier for my 8 y/o daughter to sail if I can reduce the main sheet load.

Second reason is I'm concerned about pulling up on the main with a shoulder I've already had trouble with in the past particularly in stronger winds.

Which of the many in the range were you looking at using?

Dave

Author:  MRL [ Sun Jan 18, 2009 9:31 am ]
Post subject: 

dave I have a Ronstan 40mm Ordit rachet block coming in it is very light. I chose the model where you switch the rachet on and off manualy. There is another version which automaticaly engages with increased sheet load. If you can not decide the 55mm version allowes both modes in the same block but it is larger and heavier. I will let you know how it works

Author:  geocacher [ Fri Jan 30, 2009 10:53 pm ]
Post subject: 

I know the weathers not the warmest over there at the moment but any news on this?

Dave

Author:  MRL [ Sat Jan 31, 2009 8:54 am ]
Post subject: 

Dave I have recieved the new block and at the same time changed the mainsheet So far it looks greart the 40 mm block is very light and small and has plenty of purchase. The isssue for me has not been the cold it's been a lack of wind . So I have not had a chance to use it in a breeze. Hopefully nextweekend this will change. As I mentioned I chose the manual on off block.
Mike

Author:  Pirate [ Sat Jan 31, 2009 2:08 pm ]
Post subject: 

Any chance of a picture of your block set-up Mike? Sounds interesting...Pirate

Author:  MRL [ Mon Feb 02, 2009 6:17 am ]
Post subject: 

no problem I will have something out by the weekend

Author:  MRL [ Sun Feb 08, 2009 10:29 pm ]
Post subject: 

Had a chance to try out the rachet block today in winds between 5 and 15 Knots worked great could still ease the sheet with no problem even in the light stuff. One caveat I am running a slightly different mainsheet system since I sail with a boom. Where I have the rachet block the line only wraps 90ish degrees instead of about 180 degrees in the standard system, however since the booom and vang ofset some of the mainsheet loads it should be a wash. photos coming soon.
Mike

Author:  stringy [ Mon Feb 09, 2009 3:13 am ]
Post subject: 

MRL,
I've become interested in this since my mate Jason who has Cerebral Palsy has developed a keen interest in sailing the AI. I'm thinking it may make it easier for him. Pics and reports would be good! 8)

Author:  geocacher [ Sun Feb 15, 2009 9:56 pm ]
Post subject:  BUMP - Photo reminder...

Sorry to be a pain. Any chance you might post your photos...

Dave

Author:  MRL [ Mon Feb 16, 2009 1:13 pm ]
Post subject: 

Dave you are no pain at all. I have posted my set up in a thread Boom and Boomvang on AI. In my case I use the Ronstan block in place of the old Harken Block were it attaches to the bridal. I have a shot of this with the bridal stowed which I will post. I think the block would also make a great drop in for the aft Harken Bullet block with becket near the stern of boat for those not using a boom. Have you had a chance to check out the Ronstan Web Site for more info on the orbit block.
Mike

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