[C320-list] Jack lines

[Dennis Harris]

If the jack line goes from the traveler near centerline to the base of the 
helm, doesn't this create a problem in the cockpit with handling the jib 
sheets and other functions that normally require moving around in the 
cockpit?  How do you handle such tasks with the centerline jack line?

Dennis Harris  C 320 #694

-----Original Message----- 
From: spkaldor at yahoo.com
Sent: Saturday, March 05, 2011 12:01 AM
To: c320-list at lists.catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Jack lines

What I have: one inch tubular webbing, 35 ft, two lengths, stored airtight 
out of the sun, deployed on each side from bow cleat to stern after looping 
around the shrouds, ends simply tied. Attach via one commercial tether with 
elastic take-up.

What I like better after using that: 5/8" low stretch braid (eg halyard) 
tied down the center of the boat, from bow to mast, then under traveller to 
base of helm and secured aft. Connect with double ended tether. Why?

1) Much stronger line;
2) Less stretch line;
3) Less UV unnoticed degrading line;
4) Much less sensitive line. Webbing doesn't handy even small exposures to 
sharp edges very well.
4) You can lock in to the tether before you step out of the cabin so you are 
secure faster. You can also duck below to fetch something from the galley or 
chart table without unhooking;
5) You don't have to worry about stepping on the line because it runs where 
you don't walk.
6) Double attachment means you are always looked in as you go past line 
tieoff points.
7) When you fall, you are tied in to the middle of the boat, not the edge, 
so you stay on the boat. And versus tethering to the opposite side, easier 
to move fore and aft.
8) At the helm, you are tied in forward, not behind you, keeping you at the 
helm.

Yes, it is more in the way, but I'm only in that kind of weather with one or 
two on board. Anyway, anyone on deck should be using it.

My two cents. Your mileage may vary.

Sean
Liberté # 499
San Francisco