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The upper setup uses hardly any downhaul and way
too much outhaul. The lower setup, in contrast, is
tuned correctly
Downhaul
Set the extension as per the info on the sail. If, for
example, it states a luff length of 448cm then it will
typically need the extension to be set at 18cm, using a
430cm mast. If you are using an adjustable head sail with
no extension (just a non-extendable mast base) then, say
your luff is 415, you would typically use a 430 mast with
the strap set at 15cm. Insert the mast half-way up the
sleeve and work the sail down the mast from there. Avoid
ramming the mast into the luff tube as care needs to be
taken when inserting a straight mast into the sweeping
curve of a luff tube. Consider taping the mast sections
together using electrical tape in case of separation. Some
modern masts are so well-engineered that the two sections
can be pushed apart by trapped air and if this happens out
of sight inside the luff tube then the mast could break
when downhaul is applied. I am assuming that you have
Above: Taping mast sections tightly can prevent
separation inside the luff tube during rigging
chosen a compatible mast for your sail as mast types are
not being covered here.
Thread the downhaul. 2.0 metres of 4mm Dyneema core rope
are needed (I use the awesome, windsurf-specific Marlow
Formuline 3.8mm which is 12 strand Dyneema SK78 with no
outer sheath). To avoid chafing and friction under tension, learn
how to rig it in such a way that the lines stay uncrossed. Use a
pulley hook on sails with a tack cringle (although most modern
sails have a tack pulley fitted). Pull it on until the leech goes
floppy down to the 3rd or 4th batten. The other thing you are
looking for when downhauling is for the end of the batten
above the boom to be drawn into a position where it is sitting
about half way across diameter of the mast (downhauling a
little more if very windy). Tidy the downhaul away by tying it off
or, if you have one, coiling it into the mesh pocket on the inside
of the bottom of the luff tube. Having a load of rope sloshing all
over the board when you’re sailing is an unwanted distraction.
Below: Always thread your downhaul in such a way that minimizes any friction or twisting
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