In other recent threads in this forum, it has been suggested that the J30 is weak in light airs and strong in heavy air. I have always had the opposite experience. We have been strong against a variety of boats in light winds (under 10 knots) while having difficulties in heavier winds (over 18 kts). Admittedly, our experience is primarily in lighter winds.
I think I understand the basics for heavy air trim but I must be missing something. We flatten out the main with the outhaul, pull the draft forward with the cunningham, pull the traveller up and let the main twist off with the sheet. We also pull good and hard on the vang and try to vang sheet like the J24s do. The backstay is pulled on good and hard to help flatten the main and the forestay. The genoa lead is moved aft to match the twist in the main.
We also try to carry lots of crew weight to hold the rail down some. But I have a hard time keeping the boat flat (less than 15 degrees).
What other methods are used? Does anybody move the rig forward before leaving the dock when winds are expected to be heavy? We typically change down to the #3 early (~15 kts) to keep the boat flat but I'm concerned that this may slow us down. I know that its recommended to carry the #1 up to about 18 kts but we just get way overpowered.
Any help is appreciated.
