Sails and Rigging
12.10
Store rigging in a dry place. Never store in a plastic
bag, which can cause corrosion.
12.12.1 Sail care
Sunlight is a sail’s worst enemy, so cover the mainsail
when not in use. An ultraviolet guard, fitted down the
leech of a roller headsail will protect the exposed part
from the weathering effect of the sun and from dirt and
grit. Mildew, can be prevented by storing sails dry and by
hand washing twice a season. Check all sails regularly
for chafe, particularly where they chafe on deck fittings
or rigging, at reef points, batten sleeves and the foot of
the headsail. Sail batten pockets should be inspected on
a regular basis.
To stow the mainsail, start at the leech and flake it onto
the boom, left and right, in about 18-in. (46 cm) folds,
while pulling the leech aft. Secure with a sail tie and con-
tinue to the luff. Lash to the boom with sail ties or shock
cord.
12.12.2 General Hardware Maintenance
Check all fittings regularly to be sure screws are tight.
Occasionally lubricate (use silicone lubricants) all mov-
ing parts on such fittings as blocks, turnbuckles and cam
cleats, as well as the locking pins of snatch blocks, track
slides, spinnaker poles, etc.
Inspect cleat and fairleads for roughness and smooth
with fine-grained emery paper if necessary. Also, replace
any missing or damaged cotter pins in turnbuckles and
shackles, and either tape them or use them or use pro-
tective covers manufactured for that purpose. Grease
winches a minimum of once yearly.
12.12.3 Winch Maintenance
Follow the maintenance instructions prescribed by winch
manufacturer. We recommend a minimum of an annual
cleaning and light greasing.
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