26X Spinnaker Install with halyard mast tang install

[pitchpolehobie]

Hey group, purchased a used spinnaker for next season. I did order the Halyard relocation kit from bwyachts.com along with the whisker pole they recommend. I was going to ask if anyone else has done this install and any advice or reason to deviate from their included i structions which appear comprehensive. Hoping to get started in later spring. As a winter project Ill be copying a spinnaker bag I made for my friend that clips into the spinnaker halyard for his potter 19.

[closehaul]

Pitchpole, On my 2000 26X I use a Spinlock fairlead attached to the bow pulpit to control the tack line. Simply thru the fairlead and attach to a forward cleat. It gets the tack as far forward as possible without adding a bow sprit. Also, the BWY kit may include enough line to have both port and starboard sheets. I have found that only one sheet is necessary because it is next to impossible to 'come about' with the spinnaker and if 'gybing', it is easier to just walk it around in front of the forestay. The sheet does not pull that hard and I simply take to the rear cleat (I do not use any winches). Also, the knot I use to attach sheet to the spinnaker is a bowline with about a 4" loop for attaching the whisker pole. If you just attach the pole without a knot to retain - it walks aft on the sheet line light winds. Regarding the sail bag: mine has a snap on the bottom that attaches to the forward lifeline, so it stays attached to the boat while hoisting the spinnaker. If you are making a dousing bag (I have never used one). When lowering the spinnaker, I shadow it with the main sail and when it collapses, stuff it down the V-berth hatch. Obviously flying a spinnaker is a two (2) person job (I single hand often so rarely fly the kite). Closehaul

[WinSome]

Thanks for the excellent sounding info from pitchpole and closehaul re: flying the spinnaker. I also have a used spinnaker I’d like to fly asap. A single sheet line makes good sense. I’m not just waiting for soft and warmer water.

[closehaul]

The Spinlock Fairlead pic did not go thru on first post. There are no sharp edges to damage foresails on this quality fairlead. Even with the curvature of the bow pulpit it fits well. Closehaul