By: Jack Gannon
1.
There
are several basic reasons why one boat goes faster than another. They are generally
related to equipment maintenance (replacement), and or cleanliness and
smoothness of the underwater surfaces. Weight can be a factor, however, this
can generally be overcome with elimination of extraneous or heavy accessories
such as heavy (waterlogged) floorboards, spars, and ,what
I call,"Overkill"fittings.
2.
Sails
are the power for your boat, and many people are sailing with very old sails
that have lost their shape and therefore effectiveness. Enough said on this
point. Replacement cost is a consideration, (Approx $400)
3.
Centerboards:
Steel centerboards on the older boats have two problems: First, they are
generally rusted and pitted, and secondly the pivot pin holes
have enlarged so as to increase slopiness in the centerboard box and diminishes
upwind pointing ability. The third issue is that the maximum depth of the
centerboard (20 1/2") must be attained!!
4.
Wetted
Surfaces: This includes Centerboards, Rudders, and of course, the hull. All of
these surfaces need to be fair, smooth and kept clean. I see many rudders that
have been neglected (chips and gouges) and even some that have become watter
logged. The difference between a dry and a "water-logged" rudder can
be as mush as 5-6 Lbs. It is also important that the rudder, tiller and tiller
extension be tight and not sloppy as this impairs the response of the boat to
steering in the shifts, and especially, upwind in choppy waters.
5.
Fittings
and Rigging. In order to sail your best, without distractions, it is absolutely
necessary to have fittings that not only work properly, but are located for
ease of operation while racing. There is nothing more detrimental to the
competetive psyche than something that doesn't work properly. Most adults would
get our cars fixed if something were broken, so why not your childs boat?
6.
Tuning:
I believe shrouds must be maintained in a taught manner, without sag. Some say
that the shrouds should be slacked about a 1/4" however all around
performance dictates othewise.
7.
Mast
and Booms. Wood masts can be effective if they are tuned properly. Booms need
to be stiff enough so as not to bend in a breeze. A wood strongback mounted to
the top edge of the boom will improve it's
performance.
All of these factors
contribute to lost distance in a race.
If you need help in
evaluating your boat feel free to contact me.
J.G. Marine
(781) 272-2685