Sail Tape

[dancing_bear]

The other day in 18-22 mph winds I poked some holes in my jib and main. They are Horizon sails, that I expect came with the boat in 1986. I would say the sails are in good condition.

The mainsail has a 2" tear, fore of the batten pocket.
The leach separated from the mail part of the jib, about 2' of leach separated, however it is still attached at both ends.

I have a second jib, so I am thinking of sending the damaged jib to Sailcare for repair and re-resin. I am thinking of taping the main, and sending it in for repair when I go on vacation in August.

Thoughts on the sail tape repair? Instead of tape, should I just get it fixed right and forgo a couple of weeks of sailing? Will tape screw up the repair later plan? How long does Sailcare take? Any other recommendations?

Thanks!

[pokerrick1]

I can't tell you about Sailcare, but I have used the sail tape from WM (about $20 USD) very successfully. I don't see how using sail tape would interfere with permanent repair later?

The tape seems to hold up very well uder stress. It's also good for taping in Batons so they don't spring out, etc.

If I took two weeks off from sailing for repairs, I would have to attend a withdrawal recovery center

Rick

Edited Sun for spelling

[NiceAft]

Short of the

withdrawal recovery center

, I agree with Rick.

Ray

[Kelly Hanson East]

Depending on what kind of sailor you are, do check out new sail prices before you pay for a repair. For casual sailors (like myself) you can get lower grade polyester sails from several lofts cheaper than repair bills. If you are performance racer, then you probably wont be happy with these (we can sell you a nice Pentex sail in that case

You can buy a fairly inexpensive new sail,and then try your hand at repairing your sail on your time. Ill confess I tried this with my genny but found it was too far gone.

[eliduc1]

So what is considered "fairly inexpensive?"

[Kelly Hanson East]

You can buy cheap (end run material) sails for Macs for as little as 200 USD

We make a line of heavier weight fabric sales that is probably 2x that. Either way, you arent up for 1000s of USD like your keel boat friends...