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What's this track for in front of RL24 mast?
Hi everyone,
Love this forum! I am currently a proud shareholder of an RL24 that needs some work and since I am not the original owner trying to investigate some matters for which I could not find any answers for.
The track and traveller in front of the mast going accross the cabin top in the image attached does anyone know if this is an original part fitted to the boat when it was build? And if so what is its purpose?
Thanks in advance for helping solve the mystery.
Mike Van Loon16-Apr-2016    Edit    Delete 
Re: What's this track for in front of RL24 mast?
Here's a close up of the end of the track. Looks like the pullie for the jib has been raised to clear the track. I assume this would not have been the original set up?
Thanks
Mike Van Loon16-Apr-2016    Edit    Delete 
Re: What's this track for in front of RL24 mast?
Here's a close up of the traveller on he track
Mike Van Loon16-Apr-2016    Edit    Delete 
Re: What's this track for in front of RL24 mast?
Hi Mike, the set up on RL24's very quite a lot, as people all have different ideas on what would work for there required use. I would say that the track on the deck in front of your mast was an attempt to set up a self tacking jib arrangement. Noelex 25's have a self tacking jib track that works well due to its curved track arrangement. Can't see that the one you have would work that well due to it being flat. Providing it is in the right position (for and aft) for your jibs foot length, you could use it to help adjust the sheeting position inboard/outboard. Hope this helps.
Darryn17-Apr-2016    Edit    Delete 
Re: What's this track for in front of RL24 mast?
Hi Mike. Yeah it's a self tacking jib system. Warrigal had one of those when I bought her from Adelaide and I know Galatea was originally a South Australian boat so it must have been a bit of a trend in South Australia back in the day. It actually works very well for short handed sailing. Ease jib slightly before you tack, tack, then haul it back in slightly when you're ready after the tack.

I only took mine off because I scored a cheap set of nearly new North sails and the jib didn't fit. I'm tempted to put it back now because I reckon the jib I have now would probably fit as it's a bit smaller.
James Shannon17-Apr-2016    Edit    Delete 
Re: What's this track for in front of RL24 mast?
Thanks Darryn & James, that's cleared it up. I can see the benefit of it so will consider to keep it or not.
James did you also have rhe Genoa pullies sit on a little marine ply block as per one of the images? I am thinking this may have been done to avoid the sheet from rubbing the corner of the track? It's just that it needs replacing but wondering if it is necessary? if you have experience with the track you may be able to give me some feedback on that.
Many thanks in advance
Mike Van Loon18-Apr-2016    Edit    Delete 
Re: What's this track for in front of RL24 mast?
Mike, I'm sorry I just can't remember precisely. I think they were there then sheeted diagonally back to the opposite side for easy sheeting. But it was a good 15 years ago now.
James Shannon19-Apr-2016    Edit    Delete 

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