I am happy this tread is alive as there are many sugestions for the beating to windward.
Rich pointed out to watch the Posting date thats on top of every Post and tho many do not relize this and post a responce after yrs pasted only helps to bring the subject up again and for all of us to read. (Thanks Rich).
I bought my X in Jan. 08 and have done many trips with a 110 jib Dole (probably original on my 1997) and a main from Tolly thats probably not original.
Saying this I would replace the Jib with same diminsions as it is the largest jib you can put on a Mac. and clears standing rigging running sheet lines aft thru the deck track. This greatly increaces Windward performance and I can go 45 degrees to windward with full main in 10-14 knots of wind in these old sails.
I always adjust sail trim to 15 degree heel (Hull strake line) as this is best for beating, any heel over 20 degrees you are going leeway more the headway.
Inside track gives you much more advantage beating.
My new sails will have two reef points and two full battens on Main Sail and thinking about loose foot.
Headsail on CDI roller furler will have full cut with window 110, no luff pad,no sunbrella cover.
I already changed my headstay to the 5/32 swag fitting, would also like to change all stays with swag and turnbuckles as Mac. flexes and in heavy wind I like to adjust underway, this also will be handy at launching.
I have had may Sailboats and Sailing 38 yrs many types and still don't know it all and never will.
Great to have this forum were many can learn and many can give their Knowledge.
Dave
johnhenry wrote:I race my boat regularly with surpriseing success. Duann's thinking was good. You will learn a lot about your boat and balance by going out in light to mid range wind and sail with only your jib. let your tiller tell you what is needed, it don't ly. This year I bought a 155% genoa from North. I was very skidish of blowing over. In 12 - 15 knts we put our windows under water yet sailed a straight line with little presure on the tiller at all. We sailed it without the main until we knew what to do to get the boat to go into the wind at a good angle. Once you got it, add the main back into the picture and you will fly. The same for a 100% jib. I can match angles into the wind with almost any boat. also, In dingys we would take the rudder off and sail with trim only. You will learn what balances a boat pretty fast. Do it in worm water and light air. We had the rudder break off in a flying junior with 15-20 knts, its was scary but we learned fast, ha!! .No need to take your rudder off your mac, just listen to it, it will tell you what you need. Talk to a profesional rigger and tell him what your tiller is doing and he will know exactly what adjustment to make. Johnhenry