What size clew block

[cmedsailor]

I am a bit confused on what size clew block to use on my furling main sail. The boat is 11,1 meters (36.5 feet), the outhaul is 10mm and the main sail 28,6 sq.meters. I find various clew blocks for boats 7-12 meters and rope 10-12mm, or 10-12 meters, or 10-16 meters and ropes 10-12mm etc. Any recommendations (any specific ones would also help)?

 

[William_H]

The size of the block depends firstly on the size of the rope you use or choose. The larger the rope the better to handle and of course stronger. I don't imagine strength however is the issue.

Sot the sheave must be wide enough. A pulley is more efficient ie less friction when it is bigger in diameter. Sheaves can also be more efficient with better bearings. ie roller or ball bearings are better than plain bearings.

So your choice of block is pretty much down to what size block is going to look the part. Obviously you don't want a big block flopping around at the clew of the sail and sliding along the boom.

What do you have now. Or is it a straight connection and you want 2 purchase outhaul? good luck olewill