HOBIE SAIL

[azztech]

I got the gear for this for under $20. works a god damn charm. Highly recommended. Only thing to be careful of, as the mast spins in the holder tube, have an unfurl cable too. The stress on the mast holder by furling with the sail line could twist your holder right out. As long as your gentle, it'll last for years. I used 7/8 teflon coated aluminium thrust washers instead of the bearing as I couldn't find stainless thrust bearings anywhere. The washes are $1.50 ea (bearing shops) in comparison to a $15 Thrust bearing that will rust. Last tip - Silicone spray the mast holder tube. Adds a bit of lube for the spinning. Again - be gentle! The whole design is not suppose to be furled, sail, mast or otherwise.

http://www.hobiecat.com/forums/viewtopi ... 2200cb972e

[ua5qb]

Has anyone experimented with a forestay on their Outback? I was out over the Christmas break off Long Beach enjoying the sailing weather, I found the OB tended to develop a weather helm requiring constant correction. I found tightening the sail helped by this created a reasonable bend in the mast. Hence the question, to see if anyone has found it useful to brace the mast.