J/30 Class Association Forums J/30 Forum The Boat, Sails and Equipment Headsail Alternatives

Thanks for the input folks. I have installed a new Harken unit with a new carbon 145% and an assym. The interesting thing is that combining the 145% with roller furling raises my PHRF rating to 144 for distance racing and 147 for non-spinnaker. It sure looks great, we'll see how it works!

I enjoyed watching this thread, particularly the quantum jump from #3 (a furling unit) to a carbon headsail and asymmetric chute. I guess I should have been tipped off by the question on the code zero. This sounds like the inventory for a Farr 395 not a J/30. Wow! Richard, would you be so kind as to explain the logic that led you to this configuration? How will you fly the asym? Do they put a UV covers on carbon headsails?

[This message has been edited by Bob Rutsch (edited 06-19-2003).]

I curious abut the Code 0. If I understand correctly, a Code 0 is essentially an asymetrical spinnaker that is cut relatively flat, can be used upwind, and is hoisted to the masthead. Do our class rules allow us to raise a spinnaker to the masthead? I wondering what my local PHRF committee would say about that. Since it is unstayed (except for the backstay) at the masthead I'm also wondering how the top of the mast handles the forces. Is anyone out there flying a chute from the masthead?

Bob, I have been using this boat primarily for day sailing and cruising. The roller is a no-brainer for that. On the carbon roller there is a thin transparent film applied for UV protection, much like thin mylar.

I am interested in beginning to do some short-handed racing. The roller and assym are simply easier to handle for single and double handed racing. If I were interested in racing with a full crew compliment, this probably would not be the way to go.

As for flying the assym this will again depend on the number of crew. I am told by my sailmaker (Z Sails) that it is most effective with the spinnaker pole. So single handed, probably no pole, double handed and more probably will use the pole. A sock would make it real easy, but I haven't invested in one yet.