Sun Odyssey 34.2 - please your comments

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cmedsailor

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Hello,
I am considering to buy a Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 34.2, 1998 model. I am concerned about the fact that this model has only two winches and would like to know how easy and functional is to use just those two. All those of you that have used this model have you ever consider this to be a big disadvantage comparing to other yachts or you don’t really consider it as a particular problem?
Is it possible to install any more winches but definitely a change ‘approved’ by the Jeanneau factory that will not change the safety or sailing features of the yacht?
In the model that does not have hatches on the roof next to the winches, will it be possible to install additional winches right next to them (typical on Hunter yachts!)?
Looking forward to receive your comments.
Thank you.
PS: General comments about this model?
Thanks again
 
We have the SO30 ... and it has 2 primary winches - the cabin top winches were added (by a previous owner) at a later date.

The need for winches on the cabin top depend on what lines lead there. We also have a winch on the mast - so theoretically any lines coming down the mast could be tensioned there ... but that excludes the kicker (only a 4:1). We also have single line reefing - so a winch is usefull to get the final bit of tension in.

Can't comment on the model - but generally our vessel is in fine shape.
 
We have a SO 33.2 similar config, slightly earlier model, we have the same winches on the coach roof.

We are fine most of the time - our observations:-

1. We have a spray hood and so winching requires a 3/4 turn and ratchet back, this can wear out the pawls on the winch. Otherwise its slightly slower, with the overlapping Genoa we would not short tack normally anyway.

2. We have a spinnaker and have to use the winches sparingly and unfortunately cannot use lazy guys / sheets, we are ex dinghy sailors and so this requires some teamwork with just two crew.

3. We have to cross winch when the winch is loaded, although we can use turning block locks as appropriate ie outhaul, mainsheet etc.

4. We could fit winches on the cockpit coaming, however the costs seem prohibitive for 2 ST winches we live with it and have done for 6 years. There is a position left there for them and this would solve most of the problems above.

By the way we are in mast furling and so don't need to have reefing pennants to worry about as well.
 
So, it is actually possible to install two more winches on the cabin next to the existing ones?
Could anybody that has actually done it post pictures to see how they look like?
Thanks
 
Don't know the exact answer but if Jeanneau sold versions with 4 winches I would copy where they put them but beware the deck at the winch position was probably srtrengthed during the build.

Spoke to one owner who added an electric windlass at a late stage of his order on a 32. Because the deck had been formed Jeanneau advised its best to finish boat then retro fit as they could not add the extra stiffening into the area in the latter stages of their production line.
 
I wouldn't think any more winches on the coach roof would be any good, why would you need them with roof mounted clutches?

Given the money I would mount 2 new sheet winches on the coamings in fron ot the lifting hatches and use the coach roof winches exclusively for the clutches, halliards, outhauls etc...
 
I have a SO34.2 owners version and have found that when I want advice on my boat I get in touch with Sea ventures who are very helpful there is also a Jeanneau Owners web site where you could get a definite answer.
I only have the two whiches on the coachroof and sometimes it can get a bit croded with all the ropes and clutches but if you plan the manouver well ahead it can be managed.
 
I just went to Jeannau owners web site so I can send you the web address but find that you have already been there.
 
Thanks franky,
yes indeed I also asked the question in the jeanneau owners forum but I still have not received any answer from anybody that has actually install winches as well as photos of them.
 
Hi, Yes I've done it. I put an additional winch on each side just outward and forward of the existing ones .. if you send me a PM, I can email you a couple of pictures. We did this so that we had enough winches for the spinnaker .. it also makes reefing easier. We also got rid of the original mainsheet system and put an 8:1 block system on to make it easy by hand .. also doubled the blocks on the kicker. The winches were expensive but pretty easy to bolt on .. no great knowledge or skill required. Jeanneau make a bracket for fixing extra winches to the edge of the cockpit (for spinnaker sailing .. but we thought they'd get in the way ..whereas the way we've put them on the roof works well for everything) .We've had an SO34.2 for 4 years and have enjoyed every minute. Best wishes, Peter
 
winch.jpg


action picture of winch installation on B Flat
 
Hi Cmed
If you pm me with contact details I will be pleaesd to tell you about my boat.The main thing I like about her is that I have my favourite crew on board.
 
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