[C320-list] How many years usage?

[Jeff Church]

I know guys that are using Catalina sails that are over 15 years old, but if you are even starting to consider a new set of sails, JUST DO IT. You couldn't possibly regret that decision. Old sails will still move the boat, but new sails are much much more fun.

I put off retiring my sails until they were 8 years old. At that point they didn't look much the worse for wear; needed some re-stitching at the UV and adjustment for a shrinking bolt rope. Even so, new Doyle Dacron sails made an amazing difference. It isn't just that the boat is faster, it's also much more responsive to sail trim adjustments, it points better, and it heels less. OEM sails might not be totally worn out after 8 or 10 years, but even when new, they just aren't cut as good or made of materials that are anywhere near the quality of an average grade of sail from a decent loft. 

When I buy my next boat, new or used, I'm convinced that I'll immediately buy a new set of sails for it. Catalina should partner with a loft and offer new boat buyers the option of purchasing higher grade sails at a fairly deep discount. Beneteau uses a medium-grade Neil-Pryde sail, Hunter offers Doyle sails as an option.

Sorry Gerry.

JeffC
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: hcreech at comcast.net 
  To: C320-List 
  Sent: Tuesday, December 04, 2007 5:45 PM
  Subject: Re: [C320-list] How many years usage?


  Jerry
  My main is still the original so it has been through 8 seasons.  It is currently at Quantum sails in Annapolis where it will be cleaned, stored, and checked for needed repairs.  I have been using Quantum since my original headsail disintegrated sailing to Baltimore.  I replaced it with a Quantum sail, that was about  four years ago. I have used Quantum for cleaning and storage every other year since I bought the sail.  On the off year both sails live in my garage.
  Sincerely,
  Herb Creech
  Cloud Chaser #606
   -------------- Original message ----------------------
  From: "Jerry Clayton" <jsea at prodigy.net>
  > Those of you who have replaced your original Catalina sails, how many years did 
  > you get out of them.
  > 
  > Regards,
  > 
  > Jerry Clayton 
  > #988