Ok to trim damaged section of furled foil?

[RadiumRob]

Mast is down pending renewing rigging.

I noticed that the top foil section has a nasty gouge in it, ~50mm long where the forestay has cut into it. The furled is a Hood Seafurl. Is it possible to trim the damaged part and retain functionality, or will everything go to rats? If not, does anyone know where Hood parts can be sourced?

Thanks in advance.

Rob

 

[basil421]

It depends if that section of foil is necessary for any of your sails.

I had a similar problem last year with my Harken Furler so I cut 35mm off the top of my foil. I knew that the top bearing was always about 100mm short of the top with my longest luff sail hoisted so I figured even when it stretches a bit there will still be enough to spare. If it did become a problem I could always use a slightly shorter strop at the tack.

You should check the situation with your longest luff foresail fully tensioned and then make your decision. I would always want to have at least 50mm of foil unused at the top.