Hi Guys

Im looking for some help to improve on our chicken rope system on the capricorn.

at the moment we have a line running from the back of the boat with a stainless steel S hook attached. While not in use the spare rope is shock corded into the rear beam.

the problem is the hook flapping around the end of the beam catches ropes, not cool. so I want to change it something better.

looking though the pictures from the NA's i spoted an infusion with a chicken line running into the rear beam.

Can anyone describe or photos of what is inside there?



http://www.thebeachcats.com/index.php?module=pictures&g2_itemId=56134&g2_imageViewsIndex=1 full sized image

Greetings Darren,
How's the new ride been? Are you missing the 5.8?

The hook should be retracted inside the beam. The bungee should be purchased through small blocks attached to the beam caps. Attached to the end of the bungees are becket blocks that the chicken line runs through. This is just one of several ways to do it.

Either modify it so the hook partially retracts into the beam or close the hook enough so the main sheet can not get hooked up in it.

And keep the ropes on the tramp

For distance sailing, you can add two jam cleats on your harness (on either side of the hook)and then just run a line between the two means with a shock cord that keeps it retracted when not in use. Advantage is that it holds you both directions, easy to disconnect, not exposed hooks, and works for 2 people. I think there are some pictures of this system with Jamie Livingston on the Tybee500 report by Rick.

Thanks for the pictures Philip! they have given me a few ideas.

I wished for the 5.8 a couple of times.. mostly when we were battling to survive in 25+ knots. its been a steep learning curve and the conditions to date have not helped at all.

Yeah Steve, its a drama when the main is hooked on the wrong side of the boat in 25 knots... I would be quite happy to cut them off, but the crew likes them. from what i see in different photos its about a 50/50 between the haves and the have nots. even in the owners manual one boat is displayed with and the next without.