How do you use a Boomkicker?
Position Boomkicker: The Boomkicker works by flexing upward and when straight, it is at the top of its travel. Install the Boomkicker with the screw head side of rod clamps facing up to flex upward away from the vang. With the boom height set, position the Boomkicker alongside the vang triangle to see how it fits.
What does a Boomkicker do?
A boomkicker is a modern mechanical device on boats that pushes the boom up by one or more glassfiber rods. If the boom is sheeted in, the rods will bend and produce a force upwards.
What is the difference between a vang and a kicker?
A boom vang (US) or kicking strap (UK) (often shortened to “vang” or “kicker”) is a line or piston system on a sailboat used to exert downward force on the boom and thus control the shape of the sail.
How tall is the mast on a Macgregor 26x?
MACGREGOR 26M SPECIFICATIONS
Length overall | 25′ 10 |
---|---|
Fuel capacity | 24 gallons |
Mast height above deck | 30′ |
Mast height above water | 35′ |
Cabin headroom | 6′ |
Why do I need a boom vang?
Controlling the boom height determines twist, or the shape of the mainsail leech. If you don’t use the boom vang in all but the lightest conditions, the boom will rise up as it is eased out and the sail will twist off, spilling power out of the top of the sail.
When should I adjust my boom vang?
When to tighten the vang: When sailing downwind on a broad reach or a run, tighten the vang to keep the boom down and minimize mainsail twist that spills air from the sail.
What angle should a boom vang be?
a 45 degree angle
The vang should be installed at a 45 degree angle between the mast and boom. Measure the height of the top of the boom above the cabin roof with the mainsail at full hoist.
How tight should boom vang be?
The golden rule of thumb: Use enough vang to keep the top batten parallel to the boom. If it is too tight, the top telltale will stall. There are a few exceptions however when it comes to boom vang use. The first has to do with multihull boats, which have a traveler that runs the entire width of the boat.
What’s the difference between a cunningham and a downhaul?
The cunningham differs from a typical downhaul in the way that it attaches to the sail. The system usually consists of a line which is secured at one end to the mast or boom below the foot of the mainsail.
What is the difference between boom vang and cunningham?
1. A boom downhaul is used on a boom that connects/attaches to a track mounted gooseneck, track is mounted to the mast. 2. A cunningham is used on a gooseneck that is direct attached to a mast (no track to slide up and down on)…
How fast is a MacGregor 26M?
At 26 feet it is simple to rig and sail, and just as easy to transport. Instead of chugging with the diesel at 4 knots, the MacGregor 26 speeds along at 22 mph.
How important is a boom vang?
The vang allows vertical adjustment of the boom, and is an extremely important tool to shape the main for speed. Tension the vang to tighten the leech, flatten the sail and bend the mast. Cruisers use the vang to keep the boom from rising when sailing downwind and abraiding the main.