Steve: Based on my observation when sailing with the 15's, they do well enough with the normal jib...even in light air. I can't imagine wanting to change the setup to a masthead rig for the small benefit it might get you. If there isn't any wind you are not going to move no matter what limp thing you have hanging. (Limp hanging things that won't move is a scary thought when you are 50). You would do better to get an asymmetrical spinnaker (as Bill flies on Storm Petrel) or a light nylon drifter in the 180% category and leave the fractional rig as is. But I think Bill also has a full batten main with a bit of extra roach built into it. I do know that with the combination of his main and AS, he is tough to keep up with in light air. And it's still the original fractional rig. Howard M17, #278 Audasea On 10/30/04 1:36 PM, "Steve R." <stever@mail.saabnet.com> wrote:
This may be a Jerry question.
In the SCA interview, Jerry mentioned that the biggest difference between the M-15 and M-17 is the masthead rig. Or words to that effect.
My home lake is often devoid of wind during the summer. A genoa would improve things. A genoa with a masthead rig would seem to be a greater improvement. I assume the difference in cost between the two genoa sizes would be slight. I have been thinking about new rigging. I do not think a longer forestay would be that costly.
What would be needed to go with a masthead rig, aside from the top casting? Would a second set of shrouds be enough? Are spreaders needed? (Dwyermast.com lists the components on their website for the DM-4 profile.) Could the lower ends attach to the existing hull plates or would a second set be required?
Anyone have thought or suggestions?
steve
Steve R. M-15 #119 Lexington, KY
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