RIG
IT RIGHT! - the CUNNINGHAM
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Rationale:
Our Cunningham system has only one feature that not everyone uses. We attach
a small S-hook to about 3 feet of 4 mil. pre-stretched line
and tie a bullet block (with a bowline) to the other end. The control line
then passes through this block as shown in the diagram. This saves dismantling
the system when the sail comes off the mast.
Installation:
Two cheek blocks (Harken 092) go just below deck level on each side (i.e.
one on each the deck of the overhang beside the mast step. |
About two inches out from each
of these, we put a silver clam cleat with eye (CL 211) or a Lance cleat.
The second pair of cheek blocks, mounted as shown on the mast supports,
need to be smaller, and we've used mini-cheekblocks. The 5 mil. soft braid
control line (about 9 feet long) is threaded in as shown. Figure-Eight
knots go onto each end, of course, with 6" of loose end for better grip.
NOTE:
If you do not use the short extra rope with the S-hook that hooks into
the cunningham hole (about one foot up from the tack along the luff), you
have to undo half the control system each time the sail leaves the boat. |