[C320-list] Mainsail sticking

[Warren Updike]

Jerry, we had the same concerns in planning for a new main. We were thinking
of using an add-in slide track as others have had success with that: sails
slide up/down in the track like snot on a door knob. 
Our sail loft suggested changing the slugs and method of attachment. We went
with BattSlides for the battens, and longer but fewer other slides. This
reduced friction in the track. I still use a dry spray lubricant about once
a month to insure smooth operation. As long as the boom is within 15-20 deg
of the wind, the sail drops like a stone on Dutchman with me in the cockpit.
Still, the Strong sail track is the best solution (I think,) as it works
well and I've seen no negative reviews. Sail loft also agreed.
As for lubricants, I would stay away from silicone lubricants for the sail.
Dry lubricants like MCLUBE Sailkote Dry Lubricant are best as they leave no
soft residue to catch and hold contaminants. CRC is now selling a dry
lubricant I'm trying; but, can't yet offer a recommendation.

Warren and Pattie Updike
1994 C320 "Warr de Mar" #62
Middle River, Chesapeake Bay

-----Original Message-----
From: Jerry [mailto:jsheets at aol.com] 
Sent: Saturday, May 14, 2016 2:23 PM
To: c320-list at catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Mainsail sticking

My main does not move up and down the mast as easily as it once did or
should. I am going to clean the slides to see if that helps. Anyone know of
lubricants on the market that might help?

Jerry Sheets
JellyRoll   # 890