[C320-list] Later model dodgers - chafe

[Warren Updike]

Brad, we have the same problem and ours is 10 years older. When we replaced
the dodger we had a leather patch applied to protect the Sunbrella from this
chafe that occurs only when close hauled and you lose draft in the main. I
try to make sure this doesn't happen. When motoring with the main up, use
the traveler to haul the boom windward to hold the draft and keep the sheet
gear off the dodger.

If you have winterizing questions or need help, we'll be winterizing the
weekend of 11/7 for haul out the following week. Or just e-mail/call.

Warren & Pattie Updike
Catalina 320, #62, "Warr De Mar"
Middle River, Chesapeake Bay


-----Original Message-----
From: Brad Kuether [mailto:bkuether at comcast.net] 
Sent: Saturday, October 24, 2009 9:11 AM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Later model dodgers - chafe

I am noticing that my 2004 stock Catalina dodger is chafing at the main
sheet.  

This occurs most when I am trying to trim and get the boom down for the
right twist in the sail.  It looks like it just wasn't measured well from
inception, but I don't know enough about the boat yet to make that call.

I am taking the dodger to get repaired, and to have a more robust material
sewn on to handle the chafing.  Someone suggested a type of better type of
Sunbrella or there was another type of material that I forget...

Here are my questions:

  a.. Is anyone else experiencing this?
  b.. Has anyone else addressed it differently?
  c.. Has anyone considered just re-doing the dodger so its lower and
further back to avoid it all together?

Thanks for any insight.  Looking forward to my first winterizing...  :(

-Brad, Mary, Monica, and Jarod
"Independence"
2004 Catalina 320 Hull 1006
Middle River, MD