I have been working on many small modifications to my Wave for the last 2 years. I added the standard jib.
The jib works much better with the addition of hanks (added 6 #0). I replaced the forestay with a non-coated
cable (allows the hanks to slide). To improve tension, I added a cable from bow-to-bow with a place to
connect the jib in the middle. This way the spreader bar does not bend. I added a small block to the jib halyard
to improve tension (this is probably overkill since the addition of the hanks).
I decided after that to order a custom-made jib. This is about 30% larger than the Hobie version.
I am still fooling around with some luff tension problems (which I think will require making the jib a wee bit
smaller).
Other mods:
Added two stainless plates to the screw holes (about midway on the outward side of the hulls).
I have run a line between these with a loop at the midpoint. Connected to this loop is a handle
I can grab onto for hiking out. I plan on testing this out with my kiteboarding harness next for a
"hands-free" operation.
Swapped out the removable tramp for the normal tramp (much nicer, now I can get it nice and tight).
Added a loop of line on the front crossbar (as a step) to aid reentering after capsize (yes that does happen).
Barry
Good idea on the jib. The way Hobie sells it to you there is no way you can get luff tension and the sail becomes useless. Your idea is exactly what I did. Take a look at the following page: http:/
If you toggle down to NEW STUFF you will see that I did the same thing.
However, the jib is just to danged small to be effective.
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The Hooter System really does work well and makes the boat sail at speeds of a H16
Good luck,
Rick
Rick,
I usually don't bother to head out unless the winds are 10-15MPH. (15-17MPH being ideal). How does your setup pan out in those conditions - looks like a lot of sail!
barry
In those winds, I would furl the sail. However, I have not yet rigged up the trap on the boat yet. With a trap I think I could hold the boat down with that sail area.
In order to do so, you would have to have a single tiller extension that goes out both sidesd and attached to the tiller in the middle. Otherwise there would be no way to tack the typical extendable tiller extension through to the other side.
The F14 theory I have would allow for a much larger, self-tacking jib (roller furling) and Hooter (roller furling). So, you could use the Hooter in light to moderate winds, the jib in heavier winds, and douse them all in a blow.
Rick