I wrote an article for the J/30 Journal in 1996 that I will send to David and anyone else on request but it's too long to post and a bit outdated. I replaced the Kenyon blocks & 4:1 system with Harken triples 086 & 087 (w/becket). They just squeeze inside the boom, to create a 7:1 purchase. The Ronstan RF5, 'Swivel 180' is the perfect cleat. It has a curved base that conforms to the shape of the boom, a swivel for side to side, a sheave so the line hangs down, and a small cam cleat with a fairlead. Crew can trim or release from the rail up to about 20 knots. Then you have to put some weight into it. You want flexible line or the system won't release in light air. I used 1/4" Sta Set that is fine; spectra would be ok too but an unnecessary expense. You could try some of the newer stronger, small blocks. But don't go so small that you end with a line you can't hold. Instead of the triple, try an 8:1 purchase using a cascading 2:1 high tech line and 4:1 rope purchase of Sta Set.
[This message has been edited by Bob Rutsch (edited 09-18-2002).]
