Moving Jib Sheet Leads from Inboard Track to Outward (Bulwark) Rail?...

[Russ L]

Hi Cap'n,
Moving the jib sheet lead outboard that much will not "destroy windward ability", but it may affect it some. It will likely improve reaching sail shapes. The inboard jib leads have been very popular with the racing fleet because windward - leeward courses are very popular with the racing fleet. They are either hard on the wind or running downwind.
For cruising, even if your destination is dead upwind you likely do not need to be sheeted and pointing as high as possible, if it interferes with comfort!
If you go with just a pad eye, as you suggested, final sheet lead trim can be made by moving the sail up or down to get it just right.

But, if you're worried about holes in the deck. Weld them shut, make a bunch of 1 inch segments out of S/S pipe, weld a nut into one end of segment, screw track to segments and then weld assembly to deck. Voila! No holes through deck! If you can do the work yourself it will cost very little.

Cheers, Russ L