I have the setup to lead the halyards and topping lift aft, but I find it much simpler frankly not to do that, especially when single handing. The M15 is really a small boat, so things are closer than you think. From a setup standpoint, the more lines you have running through blocks, the more you have to thread them when rigging, and the more places you have to deal with when taking down the mast for trailering, all of which takes time and effort. I have my main, jib, and topping lift all cleated on the mast. If you watch my video you will see that. The M15 can heave to so well, even in a blow, that I find I can stop the boat easily while under way, and go forward to the mast to drop the main and tighten the topping lift. Then, when taking the mast down for trailering, all the lines are still on the mast and don't need to be dealt with on the deck. I think if the boat were much bigger, then leading aft would be the way to go. But for me, on the mast is best. When I got the boat the lines were set up to go aft. I tried it that way, but now I am happier with the simpler setup. I added a cleat for the topping lift on the mast. The main and jib already had a cleat. Had I bought a new boat I'm sure I would have insisted on leading the lines aft. I'm glad I don't do that now. The only line I have going aft is the jib downhaul that doubles as my safety when raising and lowering the mast. And that one stays on the deck, so no need to rig it when setting up. There are a few additions that I find just terrific for single handing. First, I have a TillerClutch. I can't recommend that more highly. The device attaches under the tiller, and at a flick of a finger will hold the tiller. Wonderful. Also, I have cam cleats, and not clam cleats, for my jib sheets. Furthermore, the cam cleats have fairleads right on top of them that I added. So much easier for cleating and uncleating the jib while single handing. Can't stress that more. A simple tug or pull from almost any position gets the jib sheet cleated or open. No need to guide the line. Finally, my main ratchet block cam cleat riser setup is totally fantastic. Simple stuff, but just makes the sailing a joy. Daniel On Sep 14, 2011, at 8:31 PM, Joe Balla wrote:
I just took ownership of my 1985 M15 and am planning upgrades to my rigging, not only the mainsheeting system but plan to lead halyards aft etc. Any photos or upgrade mods that others have done would be really helpful.
Best, JB
jbsails@gmail.com
-----Original Message----- From: montgomery_boats-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:montgomery_boats-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of W David Scobie Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2011 8:05 PM To: For and about Montgomery Sailboats Subject: Re: M_Boats: Mainsheet Rigging
bill:
i responded to you off-list so i could attach a picture of the M15's thwart main-sheet cleat/block.
if you, or others, need more detail let me know :-)
:: Dave Scobie :: former M15 owner :: M17 #375 - SWEET PEA :: Sage Marine - www.sagemarine.com
--- On Wed, 9/14/11, whinkeljr@cox.net <whinkeljr@cox.net> wrote:
Hi, all! Could someone please send me some pics of their mainsheet cleat mounted on the thwart, as the M15's were originally rigged, or at least an accurate description of the tackle used? The previous owner changed the rigging and I want to get it back to the original setup for better control and handling. Unfortunately, I only get more confused looking thru the West Marine catalog at all the blocks, cams and cleats. Also, has anyone rigged up lazy jacks? It's always such a mess in the cockpit when I lower the mainsail! Thanks alot, guys! I want to get "Prelude" looking good for Havasu 2012! Bill Hinkel '87 M15 #398, "Prelude"
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