GP14 Sailing Forums Forum Length of split tails

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    • #22834
      Davegp
      Participant

      Hello

      Another very basic question about my GP14 set-up – It has a centre main with a ‘split tail’ sheet – I’ve had a good google about this and can’t seem to find a definitive answer – which is what should the length of the Tails be? i.e when kicker is on as tight as possible and main too, should the point at which the mainsheet splits be a) just at the mainsheet block at the end of the boom, b) above the block (so the tails are going some way along the boom c) below the block (which I can’t think is right as this would seem to negate the ‘centering the boom’ advantage of the split tail system)

      Not sure there’s actually alot of mechanical or any other difference between my options a) and b) – so thinking I’ll err on the side of having the split just above the end boom block when everything is pulled in tight (i.e. along the boom slightly) – but would be great to get a view from others with more knowledge than me

      Many thanks in advance

       

    • #22835
      Oliver Shaw
      Moderator

      To my mind the principal advantage of the split tail system per se is not so much that it can centre the boom as that the boom is always sheeted from the weather quarter,  thus optimising the sheeting angle,  and so minimising the sheet load.    This makes it a very efficient system.

      Depending on your particular rope,  and your particular block,  you may well find problems if the twin tails are allowed to enter the block.    So I would always ensure that the split occurs below the block even when sheeted right in.

      Depending on the detail construction of your sheet you may have an increase in diameter for a short distance above the split (indeed I would expect that you would,  but I am not really familiar with it because for cruising I prefer transom sheeting).     Depending on your block,  this may  –  or may not  –  render freely through the block.   So you may possibly need to ensure that this thickened region also stays below the block;  but this will depend on your particular sheet and your particular block.

      But I don’t see any benefit in having the split any lower than whatever is needed to satisfy the above restrictions.

      Hope this helps,

       

      Oliver

    • #22836
      Davegp
      Participant

      Thanks Oliver – once again that makes alot of sense – I’ll aim to have the split as close to, but just below, the block as possible when the kicker is on max and the boom centred.

      • #22838
        Oliver Shaw
        Moderator

        I should also have mentioned that one option  is to take your split tails through deck bushes (or alternatively turning blocks on deck),  and then forward to jam cleats at the aft end of the cockpit.    That allows you to adjust them if you so wish  –  although when I had a boat rigged in that way some years ago I don’t think I ever altered the setting once I had first set it up.

         

        Oliver

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