Forums, Mast, Rigging and Sails, new mast

Warren at 01/11/2012 21:39:13
I am currently replacing my mast and standing rigging after it was damaged in a winter storm at the marina. I am planning to leave for extensive offshore cruising next summer and would like to fit an appropriate replacement rig. Can anyone tell me the specs on the spars currently being used on the new build Contessa 32. I am also interested in knowing if the “Expedition” class is using a heavier spar and standing rigging. cheers

moongirl at 02/11/2012 18:20:29
Not sure about the ‘Expedtion’ boats but JR should be able to answer that one.
To remain in Class mast sections should match the original Kemp – Selden have such a section which was used when Jemmana was re-rigged. Cosantes fitted a mast from Z Spars which must have been in Class since her Owner was Class Measurer.
Is your boat Taylor built? I have it in my mind that their boats used a taller rig.

Galatea at 04/11/2012 00:34:46
Yes, the J.J. Taylor Contessa 32 mast was 3 feet taller than the Jeremy Rogers version (I=40’8" J=12’8" P=35’ E=12’).

A few years ago my original Cinkel mast was destroyed and I replaced it with Selden. Selden recommended section E177/124, which I think is one size larger than what is used for the standard JR CO32s. I also added a removable inner forestay to the rig.

Warren at 04/11/2012 16:31:12
Yes, my JJ Taylor build has a taller rig. I have new sails made for it and so want to maintain original length. I am wanting to put as strong a spar as is practical for extended cruising. Thanks for the reply

Warren at 04/11/2012 16:37:07
I have been looking at Selden since JR is putting them in the new builds, but have not been able to learn what the strongest recommended section is. I will check the moments of inertia against my original Isomat NG 37 and see.
I am also curious if people are happy with the Selden boom. I understand that it is single line reefing and wonder if this works well?
Thank you for your reply.

moongirl at 04/11/2012 19:43:08
There is nothing wrong with the Selden boom. They do one with 3 reefs which is more than adequate – I’ve never got to the third reef in 40 years!

Galatea at 07/11/2012 02:12:30
Warren,
I am very happy with the Selden boom. They convinced me to try the single line reefing version. I was skeptical at first, but after several years of trouble-free operation I think it’s wonderful to be able to reef the main without leaving the cockpit.

If you do decide to go with the 177/124 section, keep in mind that the matching deck ring is surprisingly large diameter. I would probably get a Spartite kit to replace the wedges if I were heading offshore. I would also look into modifying the standard Selden mast step to pin the mast as required by ISAF regulations. If you are planning on having all the halyards run to the cockpit, you will need special turnbuckles to tie the mast ring to the mast. (Selden forgot to include them in their first quote.)

Finally, Selden will normally ship the mast in two pieces, to be sleeved together by the rigger. I don’t see anything wrong with this, but I could see how some people might not like it.

Warren at 08/11/2012 19:57:46
Thanks for the info. I am happy to hear the single line reefing is working as this was a concern debated by the locals here. With such a short boom I suspect it would work better than a boat with a long boom. Did you have blocks sewn into the sail or are the lines simply run through cringles?

I am still trying to find out what spar and dimensions that JR is using on his new builds – particularly the “Expedition” boat. Cheers

Galatea at 09/11/2012 03:02:25
I have webbing loops sewn into the luff for the reefing lines. The reefing lines are attached using small shackles.

One thing to keep in mind is that the single line reefing limits the height of the 2nd reef to a little less than the length of the boom. For offshore, I would probably add a 3rd reef, with a conventional jiffy reefing setup.

The Selden Sailmaker’s Guide has a lot of good information about their reefing systems.