Dumb Sheaves

[Wrinklybear]

Osteo -

Thx for yr note...y're quite right, I wld prefer built-in sheaves, but the mast is 10ft6" tall and is less than 2 1/2 inches diameter at the top. Basically, I'm afraid to cut into the damn thing any more than I already have!

This question applies to a single gaff-rigged mainsail on a small catboat, and while I agree with yr comments in theory, I worry about abrasion of the 1/4" halyards, especially since I have been unable to find any thin copper flashing as a dumb-sheave hole lining. I am considering the use of tin flashing - will that last, do y think?

Cheers, Bear.

[Brion Toss]

Hello,
I understand your reluctance to carve away more wood. Is this a 1-part halyard? Is the problem that it's too hard to hoist? If so, consider deadending the line aloft, then go down to a small block or lizard on the sail, then back up to the dumbsheave. You'll double the purchase, overcoming much of the friction.
Mounting a cheek block would probably not make for too much side moment, but it would be foul on one tack, yes?
Fair leads,
Brion Toss

[Wrinklybear]

Brion :

The lizard sounds like an excellent idea - don't know why it didn't occur to me. And y're right abt a fouled lead as well.

Thx for the feedback guys.

Bear.