SAIL ADJUSTMENTS WITH CONTROL LINES When sailing, you need to adjust the position and shape of your sails in response to a change in wind


conditions or point of sail. Various sail controls (lines and equipment) are used to adjust the sail shape. The two primary sail controls are the mainsheet and the jib sheets.


The Mainsheet controls the angle and shape of the mainsail. It runs through a series of blocks (pulleys) which give the crew mechanical advantage while they trim (pull in) the sail.


The Cunningham is a line that is used to properly tension the luff of the mainsail along the mast. On some boats, a downhaul serves the same purpose.


The Outhaul is a line used to properly tension the foot of the mainsail.


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The Boom Vang is used to properly tension the leech of the mainsail.


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The Traveler controls the position of the boom across the boat.


A Winch helps you pull in and hold a sheet. The friction gained from wrapping a sheet around the winch drum reduces the pull needed to hold the sheet in. A winch handle can be inserted into the top of the winch to provide additional power for pulling in the sheet.


Jib sheets control the jib. They run from the clew of the jib, back to the cockpit and are trimmed (pulled in) or eased (let out) to change the shape and position of the jib.


Jib sheets run through Fairleads. These blocks are usually attached to an adjustable track on the deck or to a rail on the side of the deck. The jib fairlead is moved forward and backward on the track to accommodate different sized jibs and trimming angles.


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A Clutch Cleat, also known as a rope clutch, is used to hold the line in place. It can be opened to release the line or closed to lock it in place.


A Cam Cleat 1 has jaws with “teeth” that are spring loaded so they press and grip a line snugly. To release the line, pull and lift. Cam cleats can be difficult to release under heavy load.


Table of Contents


A Clam Cleat 2 is very easy to use... simply pull the line through it and let go. To release the line, pull and lift it out. This can be a difficult task under heavy load.


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