LUFF FEEDERS/SINGLE LINE REEFING

[MIKE_MCKIE]

I intend to convert my current slab reefing to single line, using the Harken system of external line/blocks etc, (although not Harken ££££££ components!!!)
Using existing slab reefing components + a couple of blocks I can get the system to work for pulling down a reef without any problems.

However my Main has slug sliders fitted instead of boltrope. The question is, is there a sail feeder around that can cope with slugs as opposed to bolt rope, thus enabling me to release the reef from the cockpit when needed, without having to lose the benefits of single line & traipse up to the mast to feed the luff into the track??

Despite lots of searching of catalogues & websites I have not come up with one. Anyone any ideas please?
TUIA
Mike

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[vyv_cox]

You need a spring-loaded gate that closes to prevent the slugs from leaving the luff groove. Most (all?) mast manufacturers provide them for their products. All my single line reefing systems have been fitted in conjunction with sliders.

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[MIKE_MCKIE]

Many thanks, I will live with the (rather old) split pin across the bottom of the track.

I just felt that the sail would set better if the slugs below the reefing cringle came out of the track, giving a closer stow to the boom. However if it works for you, I'm sure it will be more than adequate for me.

Thanks again.
Mike

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[vyv_cox]

On my original main the full complement of sliders and reefing cringles was fitted for normal slab reefing. I converted this to twin single line with internal balance blocks. Reefing was never a problem so far as the sliders were concerned, maybe a little bunching but no more than that. My current boat has the identical arrangement and spar maker. On buying a new main the number of sliders was reduced and the cringles were replaced by loops, but I can't say that the sail sets any better for these changes. Unless the cringle is placed exactly coincident with a slider (unlikely) I doubt that you will see any problems.

The only operational problem I ever have is that sometimes a slider will hang up and not pull down with the sail. You can overcome this by tying a small loop of line to the slider and feeding the reefing pennant through it.

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[MIKE_MCKIE]

Thanks for the advice. My previous (largely dinghy) experience is a little short on the practicalities of single handing a 26' sloop, and 30 years of driving damn great ships around the oceans is even less help!
From you comments I am sure I'll get a satisfactory system going, no problem.
brgds
Mike

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