Replacement jib sheets

[chris-s]

As a relative newbie, I need to replace the 12mm jib sheets on my Pegasus 700, but I’m never sure what type of rope to use. Looking at the current sheets I think they are braid on plait, but all I seem to find in stores is braid on braid. What is the practical difference between the two and if braid on plait is preferred, where might I find some? Or is there something else I should consider?

Thanks

Chris

 

[pvb]

Your photo looks like braid-on-braid, this is fine for jib sheets. Choose a size based on easy handling.

 

[johnalison]

As said, it is largely about handling since most ropes will be strong enough. We changed the original matt braid ropes to shiny ones because the matt ones didn't run as well and quite quickly started to abrade.

 

[Ningaloo]

12mm sounds a bit heavy for your boat. 10mm will be strong enough and will run more easily (less friction) through block's etc.

I changed my jib sheet from 12mm to 10mm and it transformed the ease of handling, although mine is a self tacker with rather more blocks than a conventional Genoa/jib.

 

[Foolish Muse]

Another consideration is what is required to get a grip from your winches. I moved down a size and was disappointed to find that I now need 3 wraps around the winch rather than the previous 2 wraps. Otherwise the sheets slip when I'm grinding. I plan to move back up to the larger size.

 

[johnalison]

Another consideration is what is required to get a grip from your winches. I moved down a size and was disappointed to find that I now need 3 wraps around the winch rather than the previous 2 wraps. Otherwise the sheets slip when I'm grinding. I plan to move back up to the larger size.

I regard three turns as normal on winches, whatever the cordage, and my winches have labels to that effect. If you allow slippage this will cause wear on the textured surface. For jib sheets I regard two turns as normal when reeling in the line after a tack, but a third turn before winching, though I not uncommonly reduce to two turns in very light conditions.

 

[[70521]]

I moved from 12mm to 10mm on my 10 meter boat last year. The 12mm was far too big for what I needed. It might take an extra wrap or two as Foolish Muse indicates but that are what winches are for.

 

[TLouth7]

If you allow slippage this will cause wear on the textured surface.

How do you ease your sheets?

 

[johnalison]

How do you ease your sheets?

I don't, ever.

Easing sheets involves much less tension, though wear will eventually occur of course. People who habitually grind in their jibs under load with slippage are not doing their winches any good in the long run.

 

[TLouth7]

Fair enough, I agree with that (though wasn't aware that anyone allowed such slippage). I would be more worried about damaging the line if rotating the winch without the sheet moving, as you will very quickly get a hot spot.

 

[[70521]]

I don't, ever.

Easing sheets involves much less tension, though wear will eventually occur of course. People who habitually grind in their jibs under load with slippage are not doing their winches any good in the long run.

Is there any science behind that statement?