J Manual - Hoofer Sailing Club

University of Wisconsin-Madison
oofer ailing Club
J.
I
22 24
Manual
HOOFEH SAILING CLUB
Editors:
May 1991
September 1994
April 2002
Dierk Polzin
Kristine Simonson
David Odegard & Deb Lease
Graphics by
Matt Cullen & David Odegard
With much help from J /Boats, Inc.
Layout by
Jim Rogers
Copyright © 2003 by Hoofer Sailing Club, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Wisconsin Union; 800 Langdon Street; Madison, \'{1l 53706
www.HooferSailing.org
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form without permission.
Revised 6/12/03
PART ONE ......................................................................... 3
AN INTRODUCTION ........................................................... 3
Specifications of the J-22 and J-24 ............................... 3
Parts of the Boat .......................................................... 4
Rigging ......................................................................... 4
PART TWO ........................................................................ 6
SAIL PLANS AND SAIL TRIM ............................................. 6
Sailing Characteristics and Sail Plans ......................... 6
Sail Shape and Effect.................................................... 7
The A1ainsail ........................ ........................................ 8
Main Halyard and Cunningham ................................... 8
Outhaul ........................................................................ 9
A1ainsheet ..................................................................... 9
Traveler ................................................ ........................ 9
Boom Vang ................................................................... 9
Backstay ................................................. ,................ ... 10
Depoll'ering the Mainsail .............. ............... .............. 10
The Jib ........................................................................ 10
Jib Halyard ................................................................ 11
The Fairlead and Jib Sheet ........................................ 11
The Genoa .................................................................. 12
Introduction to the Spinnaker ..................................... 13
Basic Spinnaker Trim ................................................. 13
PART THREE .................................................................. 15
Sail Handling and Winches ..... ...................................
Upwind Sailing ..........................................................
Down Wind Sailing ..... ...............................................
Steering and Weight Placement .................................
Boat Handling and Crew Coml1lullication .................. 15
Crew Positions .... ....................................................... 15
20
PART FOUR .................................................................... 21
SEAMANSHIP .................................................................. 21
Introduction ...............................................................
Presail Checkout .......................................................
Docking .....................................................................
Mooring .................................................... .................
Anchoring ............................................. .....................
Heaving To ................................................................
Rigging Failures ........................................................
Crew Overboard........................................................
QllickStop .................................................................
21
21
21
22
22
23
23
23
25
PART FIVE ..................................................................... 26
J-BOAT CARE AND POLICIES .......................................... 26
Hoofer J/22 and J/24 Policies and Ratings ................
Use of Motorboats and Tenders .................................
Mooring .....................................................................
Sails and Equipment ..................................................
J/22 and J/24 Weekly Checklist .................................
26
27
28
28
30
PART SIX ........................................................................ 31
31
biformalion on J/22 and J/24 Boats ........................... 31
Sailing and Seamanship ............................................. 31
Racing ....................................................................... 31
RESOURCES FOR FURTHER LEARNING ...........................
BOAT HANDLING ............................................................ 15
16
16 .
17
J·BOAT
AN
MANUAL
INTRODUCTION
The J/22 and J/24 boats represent very popular designs that are sailed the world over. They are
performance oriented, fractional rigged, small keelboats that are affordable and portible. They
are used for racing, day sailing, and family weekend cruising. By way of simple comparison, the
key elements of each are offered below.
While
both
boats
are
responsive, the J/22 is more
responsive due to its lighter
weight and nearly comparable
sail area.
Key Comparative Statistics
Characteristic
J/22
J/24
From the build history, it is
apparent that theJ/24 has been
more broadly accepted. This is
in part because it was a major
design breakthrough in the mid
1970s when it was introduced,
and in part due being larger and
heavier allowing it to handle the
open sea better.
Length Overall (ft)
22.5
24.0
Length Waterline (ft)
19.0
20.0
Beam (ft)
8.0
8.9
Draft (ft)
3.8
4.0
Displacement Ob)
1790
3100
Keel Ob)
700
950
Sail Area (sq ft)
223
261
First Year of Production
1983
1977
Number Built (by 2001)
1500
5200
Both boats have strong class
associations that define strict
rules for racing. Hoofers does
not alter the J/Boats so that
they will remain faithful to their
class.
The small cabins of these boats
makes dlem more versatile than
open day sailors like dle Badger
3
J·BOAT
MANUAL
Sloops because they offer shelter from sudden weather as well as modest cruising
accommodations.
Hoofers maintains the safety elements of these boats but does not generally support the
amenities necessary for cruising (such as a marine head, stove, and potable water).
This manual focuses on the specific aspects of the J /Boats and relies on prior sailing
lmowledge, including right-of-way tules and other fundamentals. Hoofers strongly
recommends that J /Boat students purchase the ''Basic Keelboat" sailing manual published by
US Sailing and available at the Hoofer Boathouse.
Because communication is a key to safe and successful sailing, it is necessary to have a common
vocabulary. While basic sailboat terminology is valid on these boats, they have many
components that may be new to the beginningJ/Boat sailor. The most frequently referred to
parts of the J /Boats are identified in the deck layouts shown in Figure 1. Learning tllese terms,
and where the parts are located on tlle boat, may be a bit confusing at first but with familiarity
will come confidence on the water.
Rigging a J /Boat is fairly straight forward, but does require tl1.ings being accomplished in llie
proper sequence and willi the proper care. Your instmctor and fellow students will help you
learn proper rigging. This manual will offer only a few guidelines and tips.
If rigged in tlle sequence of jib (or genoa), mainsail, spinnaker, tlle sails will deploy properly.
The following suggestions are offered to offer safety and success.
The jib/genoa should be rigged and left on deck until llie boat has cleared llie mooring field.
This will offer improved visibility.
The mainsail should be rigged witll the luff just started in llie track on tlle mast. Hoist only
when it is time to leave llie dock.
The spinnaker should have llie "tapes tun" to ensure tllat there is not a twist or ollier tangle in
tlle sail. Assurn.ing a port spinnaker hoist, cleat llie port spinnaker sheet to have about 12 feet of
line between llie clew and llie twing. This will provide a starting point for initial trim. It is also
good practice to use a slipped overhand knot on tlle spinnalcer sheets so tllat tlle spinnaker can
be released if tlle boat suddenly rounds up.
4
c..
J.
-
11::1
J.
24
0
~
-i
:s::
22
~
z
c:
~
...
main halyard
100% Jib Track
jib halyard
spinnaker haylard
TWing Fairlead
Topping Lift
Main Halyard
C1I
Foreguy
Jib Halyard
Secondary
.?'~
Winches~
Genoa Track
Y,I\ II
@III
Spinnaker
/Rachet Block
III
~
-ll
Traveler Cleat
spinnaker
rachet block
backstay cleat-Il\-\--I
Primary Winches
traveler cleat
Backstay
Adjuster Cleat
Spinnaker
Tuming Block
Figure 1: Deck Layouts of Key Parts
jib cleat
Courtesy J /World Sailing School
1\
II
J-BOAT
SAIL
MANUAL
PLANS
AND
SAIL
TRIM
The J/22 and the J/24 have a variety of sails and all of the major sail controls found on small to
midsize fractional-rigged keelboats. The J-Boats' size and stability make them ideal platforms
for studying how the vatious controls affect the helm, sail shape, and boat speed.
This section of the manual will discuss the sails and the controls used to establish their shape and thus performance. While this manual attempts to be complete, much sail trim theory is
transportable from one boat to another, so reviewing your Badger Tech, Badger Sloop, and 420
manuals would be beneficial.
When properly trimmed the J/Boats have modest heal (100 -200) and a neatly neutral helm
with little pressure on tlle tiller. The sails ate usually trimmed to achieve just a bit of weather
hehn. The boats' ate well enough balanced tllat they can be steered using the sails alone.
Reading will help you to understand the tlleory behind using tlle controls, but the best way to
leatn tlleir effects is by experimenting while sailing. Rereading this material after doing some on
tlle water experimenting will greatly increase your understanding.
The J /Boats have a vatied inventory of sails that can be deployed to best suit the conditions of
the day. Altllough experience will be your guide in time, a starting point for sail selection and
deployment, collectively called a "sail plan", is offered in Table 2. There may be times tllat the
sail
Hoofer
inventory does
Table 2: Hoofers GeneralizedJ-Boat Sail Plan
not ideally match
tlle conditions of
0-12
12 - 18
18 - 25
Wind Speed (mph)
25&Up
tlle day.
Fore Sail
Genoa
Jib
Jib
None
Mail Sail
Full
Full
Reefed
Reefed
Spinnaker
Yes
Yes
Caution!
No
6
J-BOAT
MANUAL
By way of quick review, there are three characteristics of sail shape: depth, draft position and
twist. These ideas are shown in Figure 2 for the mainsail. Each has an effect on the sail
performance and boat handling which will be outlined in the balance of this Section of the
manual.
Deep Draft for Power
In Light Winds
-
flat, Shallow Draft
for Sneed In
Figure 2: Elements of Sail Shape (Mainsail Shown)
Although the sail trim shown in Figure 2 is for the mainsail, the same principles apply to the
foresail Oib or genoa).
Draft position has a large impact on the J-Boats. Having the draft positioned forward will
increase power and drive through choppy waves. Moving the draft back will increase pointing
ability and may balance the helm.
As the wind builds, the sails should be flatter (shallower draft) and more twisted. This does two
things. First, it provides an efficient and faster sail for the stronger \vind conditions. Second, it
increases up-\vind pointing ability.
The mainsail's leech tension, and thus twist, has a big effect on steering the boat upwind. A
closed leech stalls the flow of air over the sail creating a sideways force that heels the boat and
thus increases the weather helm. On the other hand, if the leech tension is too loose, it will be
difficult to sail close-hauled because air will spill off the top of the sail thus decreasing power.
Ideally, d1en, dle main sheet is trimmed to a happy medium--not too tight and not too loose.
7
J-BOAT
MANUAL
The mainsail on the J-Boats is important for both performance and for balancing the helm. As
a general starting guide the mainsail should be trimmed to achieve the following when sailing
close-hauled or on a close reach:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Have the telltales on the leach streaming back most of the time and not fluttering up
or to the lee of the main. The top batten's telltale should flow straight back 75% of the
time.
In light to moderate wind, the luff of the mainsail should have little or no fluttering
Ouffing).
Have the point of maximum sail draft approximately 45 - 50% of the way back from
the mast.
In light to moderate wind, have the top batten nearly parallel to the boom. (Look up
the sail from under the boom.) As the wind builds, this will change when the sail is depowered using the controls as outlined below to impart twist to the mainsail. The
JBoats usually benefit from a small amount of mainsail twist.
The mainsail shape and position to the wind is controlled by the mainsheet, traveler, halyard,
vang, outhaul, cunningham, and backstay.
The mainsail and its controls can be a bit confusing, so don't hesitate to experiment with them
on the water. \V'hen doing so, try to think about the interplay between the controls, especially
the mainsheet, cunningham and backstay. \V'hen you adjust anyone of these controls, it will
have an effect on the other two. Remember the best way to learn this is to see it firsthand.
The main halyard and cunningham together control dle mainsail's draft position and depth.
The draft is the deepest point in the curve of the sail. As the main halyard and cunningham are
trimmed, luff tension increases and the draft moves towards the mast.
65%
FLAT ENTRY
UmcHTOO
________________1_______________ ---- -------CONNING HAM
OFF
DRAFT roo PAR AI".
MORfJ CURVB
DBH INO
45%
MA_~~ ______""_'"'__..._...__",,_...__""_"'__At~_...__-_...__..._...__"'___""""__""_""__""_-___________ LOSCH I'LAT
CUNNINGHAM ON
PIlAff summ.Y I'OIlWA_O
Figure 3: Cunningham and Draft Position
Notice how dle cunningham flattens out the sail depowering it in windy conditions. \'{lhen the
sail is first raised, adjust halyard tension so that dle draft is about at the middle of the sail. Then,
when sailing, dle cunningham is used to adjust dle draft position. The main halyard isn't usually
adjusted while sailing.
8
J-BOAT
MANUAL
The outhaul flattens the foot of the sail. This does two things. First, it reduces the sail's draft.
Second, it slightly opens the lower portion of the leech.
When sailing up wind, the mainsheet's primary action is to control the leech tension, or twist, of
the mainsail. (Note that this is different than the Badger Sloop because of the interplay of the
mainsheet and tlle traveler on the ]Boats.)
As the main sheet is tensioned, the boom is pulled down and the leech becomes taught, or
closed. The leech twists open as mainsheet tension is reduced and the boom is allowed to be
lifted by the force of the wind on the sails. This is shown in Figure 2.
When sailing down wind, tlle mainsheet acts to position the mainsail's angle to the wind and
tlle vang becomes more important for sail shape.
The traveler is used when sailing upwind. It alters the allgle of the mainsail to the wind while
retaining the sail shape. In doing this, tlle traveler can control the distance between the main
and jib, or the slot. Generally, when sailing upwind, adjust the traveler and main sheet so that the
mainsail's upper telltale is flying straight back about 75% of the time.
In light air, sliding the traveler to windward of center will allow proper positioning and shape of
the mainsail. Widl the traveler up high, the mainsheet tension can be looser for tlle same sail
position. Thus, tlle mainsail can be trimmed witllout excessive leach tension in light air.
\'{lhen sailing downwind, center and cleat the traveler. This will avoid the traveler car from
slamming across tlle traveler bar, in a manner that could breal<: it, when jibing or tacking.
The vang pulls down on the boom thus increasing leech tension. It is used in a number of
circumstances. The vang is much less efficient than the mainsheet at tensioning tlle leech, so be
sure to aid tlle vang by depowering the mainsail using tlle backstay and outllaul.
On a broad reach or down wind, tlle vang acts to establish the mainsails shape and tllUS avoids
complete dumping of tlle air tllat would occur if the boom were allowed to tun free resulting in
a very loose leach and large twist.
CAUTION! \\1hen tlle vang has been used for vang sheeting, be sure to ease it as you fall off to
a tun. The angle of the vang, boom and mast is such tllat tlle tension on tlle vang will increase
as the boom swings out. This increased tension can result in damage to tlle vang and/ or boom.
9
J-BOAT
MANUAL
The backstay is a vital mainsail control on the ]Boats. On the mainsail it changes leech tension
(1:\vist), sail depth, and draft position.
As the backstay is tensioned and the mast is bent, the tip of the mast is brought closer to the
end of the boom and the mainsail leech tension is reduced. Increasing backstay tension also
reduces the depth of. the mainsail. This reduced depth means a flatter sail that is depowered
and ready to sail in windy conditions. Remember, bending the mast also moves the draft on the
mainsail back, so trim the cunningham to restore the draft to the middle of the sail, or slightiy
forward of the middle in windy conditions.
The backstay also changes the luff tension on the foresail. This may be desirable if a flatter
foresail is needed for pointing ability. This may be undesirable if it crates too tight a foresail luff
causing "puckers" in the luff and resulting in an inefficient foresail. If necessary, adjust the
foresail halyard.
The ]Boats have a more than ample sail plan for many sailing conditions. So the appropriate
management of tile mainsail is an important part of success. By way of summary, the following
steps should be taken to depower the mainsail as necessary:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Select tile proper sail plan for the wind conditions. Reef tile main if the wind is
continuously over 18 mph.
Flatten and 1:\vist the sail as outlined above.
Ease the traveler to leeward in tile puffs.
Use vang sheeting Witil the mainsheet.
The jib and genoa create driving forces on the ]Boats. Being unobstmcted by the mast, ti1e
foresail meets the wind very aerodynamically giving it a key role in both power pointing. Like
the mainsail, depth, draft position and twist are factors in foresail performance.
10
J-BOAT
MANUAL
All Telltales
Streaming
Back At The
Same Point
Of Sail
Figure 4: Jib Trim Using Telltales
As a starting guide, the jib is usually properly trimmed when all the telltales break or flow evenly
at the same time as shown in Figure 4. In general, the upper 1/3 of the leech should point
slightly to leeward, the middle should point straight back, parallel to the centerline of tlle boat,
and the lower 1/3 should curve slighdy toward windward
The jib's draft position is mainly set by the jib halyard. Most of the time, you'll want to have dle
widest part of dle curve just forward of the middle of the sail. A more forward draft provides
more power and a wider angle of attack (a wider "groove"). A more aft draft will allow higher
pointing but will have a narrower groove.
The jib fairlead position and jib sheet tension act together to change both the twist and draft of
dle sail. Jib tracks are located on the deck on eidler side of dle mast. The jib sheet is fed
dtrough the jib car, which can be slid forward or aft on the jib track.
Moving dle jib car aft t\vists the sail by decreasing leach tension, while reducing draft by pulling
more on fue foot. Conversely, as fue jib car is moved forward, dle sail is pulled more direcdy
downward increasing leech tension, fuus decreasing t\vist, while pulling less on dle foot, fuus
increasing draft. Jib trim is illustrated in Figure 5.
11
J-BOAT
MANUAL
Sheeting Forward
Sheeting Aft
...
More
Twist
...
....
Less
Twist
JIIo
Less Twist
More Draft
More Twist
Less Draft
Figure 5: Fairlead Positions and Jib Trim
As with the main, a twisted jib Gib lead aft) is more forgiving, but it won't let you sail as close to
the wind as a flatter jib Gib lead forward). So, once again, try to find the midway point. As the
wind builds, the jib lead can be slid further aft. 11us will help to decrease the amount of heeling
and weather helm.
The jib sheet itself can also affect jib leech tension. In general, trimming the jib increases leech
tension and easing it decreases leech tension. On the J-Boats, small adjustments in the jib sheet
can have big effects on the sail. Watch the sail as you trim or ease, so that you don't over-adjust
the jib sheet.
The genoa is a larger sail used in place of the jib in light winds. Use the genoa as your "power
sail." It overlaps the mainsail quite a bit and may cause the main to backwind if the leech
tension is too tight. Sail with the genoa's draft 35 - 40 % back, the leech slightly twisted off and
the mainsail fairly flat. This keeps the main from bacl(Winding and allows tl1e genoa to be full
in order to power the boat cl1tough the water. Like the jib, to twist the genoa, you move tl1e
lead back a bit.
The genoa is trin1med to about one to four inches from tl1e spreader tip, depending on
conditions. Trim it tight in medimn air and flat water. Loosen it in chop or very light air.
Remember to watch the spreader when trimming so clut you don't over trim and mn cl1e sail
into tl1e spreader. Also, lift the foot of the genoa to tl1e inside of tl1e lifelines when trimming to
prevent ripping of the genoa.
12
J·BOAT
MANUAL
The spinnaker is used when reaching or running. Two lines are used to control the spinnaker,
in addition to the halyard. The spinnaker pole is attached to a line called the afterguy (or "guy"
for short but not to be confused with the foreguy) on the windward clew. The sheet is attached
to the leeward clew:
Figure 6 : Spinnaker Rigging
When the boat jibes, the pole is moved to the other side, and the old sheet becomes the new
guy.
Spinnaker trim relies on adjusting the guy, the sheet and the pole.
Trim or ease the guy so that the pole is approximately perpendicular to the apparent wind
direction (use telltales on the shrouds to determine this).
After the pole is in position, the sail is trimmed with ti1e sheet. Ease the sheet until the
windward edge of ti1e sail begins to curl over on itself. If ti1e windward edge curls more than a
foot or two, trim ti1e sheet a bit and re-ease until you see ti1e curl form again. The spinnaker
trimmer must continuously play the sheet to keep ti1e spinnaker flying on ti1e edge!
13
,.I • BOA T
MAN U A L
Proper
Spinnaker
Curl
Figure 7 : Spinnaker Curl
In addition to the sheet and guy, the spinnaker shape can be adjusted by moving the pole up
and down. When the pole is properly set, the windward edge should begin to curl in the middle
of the sail first. If the upper part of the sail curls first, raise the pole. If the lower part of the
edge curls first, raise the pole.
14
J-BOAT
BOAT
MANUAL
HANDLING
Boat handling is the collective physical and athletic acts of sailing. The J-Boats are a joy to sail
when handled well. Good boat handling is an essential element of safe sailing and is a core
ingredient of a winning racing team.
When the basics of boat handling are mastered, the crew can "get their heads out of the boat"
and focus on the bigger picture.
J-Boat sailing is definitely a team activity tilat is highly orchestrated and dependent on constant
communication among tile whole crew. Crew communication is one of tile things your
instructor will help you with on the water. Don't be shy!
The full 4 person crew will be tile basis in the manual. J-Boats can be sailed witil three or two
people. Your instructor will explain how tile duties change with different crew sizes.
Helmsperson. The helmsperson is primarily responsible for steering. It is common for the
helmsperson to also be the "skipper" or tactician but these roles do not need to reside at tile
helm. The helmsman is also usually the mainsail trin1mer, though tius may alter in some
circumstances.
Trimmer. The trimmer's responsibility is to keep the foresail properly trin1med at all times.
Tlus includes the jib or genoa and tile spinnaker. The trin1mer also switches the foresail sheets.
\'\!hen flying tile spinnaker, tile trimmer communicates tile spinnaker's disposition and ti1US
may call for course adjustments to maximize boat speed.
Twing person (optional fourtil person). As tile jibe begins, tile twing person simply eases tile
t:wing off tile old guy. After tile pole is attached to tile new guy and tile jibe is completed, tile
twing person trims tile twing on tile new guy. If tile boat is being sailed by only ti1tee people,
tile bowperson can ease and trim the twings. Under all points of sail, tile twing person can be
tasked with watching for and calling tile approaclUng puffs so tilat tile trin1mer and
15
J-BOAT
MANUAL
helmsperson can anticipate and respond accordingly. The twing person also raises the jib just
before a spinnaker douse and gathers the doused spinnaker.
Bowperson. The bowperson is responsible for keeping things right up front. This is a large
collection of intermittent activities. These activities include monitoring the jib or genoa to be
sure they tack correctly, skirting them if they need it, relaying trim infOl1llation back to the
trimmer, calling out traffic to tlle helmsman, setting and jibing tlle spinnaker pole, raising and
lowering the fore sails, and other duties as may be call for.
Sails should be handled with care for two reasons. First, they are valuable and can be damaged
by the forces of wind and various objects on tlle boat and on the peers. Second, they can be
hazardous to you because they are slippery underfoot (a dry sail on the deck can be as slippery
as water on top of ice) and they take their orders from tlle wind when not under your full
controL (Crew overboard!)
Winches, the ratcheting rotating dtun1s, are very helpful in handling jib sheets and raising
halyards. \V'inches are hand savers if used correctly because tlley perform much of the grip for
you. If handled incorrectly, winches can be dangerous. Take tlle time to learn to use them
effectively and safely.
Winches are the safest when you grip tlle lines (halyards and sheets) such that the palms of your
hands face tlle winch. People's natural grip is usually the opposite of this with their thumbs
pointing toward the winch. In situations tllat tlle line on the winch needs to be eased, or there is
an unexpected roll of tlle boat causing you to loose balance, etc., the line can unexpectedly lUn
back into the winch. If the line is being grasped wrong, the thumbs can lUn back into the winch
along with tlle line. Ouch!
Trim And Helm: The leech tension or twist has a big effect on steering tlle boat upwind. A
closed leech creates a big sideways force, which tends to spin tlle bow up into tlle wind, tlms
increasing tlle weather helm. Similarly, if tlle leech tension is too loose, it will be difficult to sail
close-hauled. Ideally, tllen, tlle malnsheet is trimmed to a happy medium--not too tight and not
too loose.
\V'hen sailing up wind, as tlle wind gets stronger the traveler is used as an active control with
regular adjustment (play). In a puff, as tlle boat begins to heel and weatller helm increases, ease
tlle traveler to leeward in order to luff the front of the sail and reduce the sideways force while
keeping the twist generated by malnsheet tension. \V'hen the burst of energy from tlle puff has
past, re-trim the sail by bringing tlle traveler back.
Remember: Use tlle travelerto keep tlle boat from heeling. It takes only a few inches of traveler
movement to make a big difference.
16
J-BOAT
MANUAL
When sailing in heavy air, boat healing and weather hehn may become so strong that traveler
position won't be able to compensate for the sideways force created by the wind. In these
conditions, yang sheeting is used to trim the main. In yang sheeting, the yang is tightened to
trim the sail. Then the mainsheet is trimmed to control the angle of the sail to the wind and
depower in the puffs. In yang sheeting, the yang acts like the mainsheet in maintaining sail
twist, and the mainsheet acts like the traveler in changing the angle of dle sail to the wind.
When yang sheeting, center and cleat the traveler.
T acldng: The act of tacking can be a beautiful dance or a clumsy few moments of terror
depending on how well the crew communicates and how practiced they are. The basic elements
of a tack for a four-person crew are as follows.
Table 2: Typical Tacking Sequence
Helmsperson
Trimmer
Twing
Bowperson
"Ready About"
"Ready"
"Ready"
"Ready"
"Hard Alee"
Releases jib sheet as it
breaks.
Pivots in place.
Pivots in place.
Ducks boom.
Slides under
boom, feet first.
Skirts jib.
Breaks mainsheet.
Steers head to wind.
Head to wind.
Trin1s new jib sheet.
Completes tack.
Trims traveler.
Finishes jib trim.
Goes to new
windward rail.
Steps around mast.
Goes to new
windward rail.
Goes to new
windward rail.
Trims mainsheet.
Goes to new
windward rail.
Trim And Helm: In general, the mainsail should have its controls eased for down wind
sailing. The exception to dus nUght be the boom yang, which will need some tension to keep
the boom down and retain mainsail shape.
\'V'atch the mainsail position so dlat it is not forced into the spreader.
Depending on conditions and exact point of sail, it may be appropriate to balance the crew
weight on bodl sides of the boat. This will not only balance the hehn, but will reduce dle boat
rolling dlat can accompany down wind sailing.
17
J-BOAT
MANUAL
Rounding Up (Broaching): \\7hen reaching with the spinnaker in heavy air, the force on the
spinnaker may knock the boat sideways causing it to uncontrollably round up into the wind. To
avoid this, the crew must anticipate the puff and follow these steps:
1.
2.
3.
As the puff hits, bear off and ease the main.
Blow the vang to open the mainsail leech.
Blow the spinnaker sheet four to six feet.
Do not ease the guy, it would result in the spinnaker being pulled out from d1e boat making the
situation even more unstable.
After the boat is back on its feet, retrim the sheet and retention the vang if appropriate.
Setting The Spinnaker: Setting a spinnaker is one of the most exciting moments of sailing.
That excitement can quicldy become chaos if the whole crew is not workjng together.
This manual will focus on a standard ''bearaway spinnaker set" from the port side because d1at
represents the most common circumstance in racing. The elements for successful bearaway
spinnaker set are as follows.
Table 3: Bearaway Spinnaker Set
Helmsperson
Trimmer
Twing
BO\vperson
"Raise the Pole"
Breaks jib sheet.
Checks sheets,
halyard, topping
lift.
Attaches pole to
mast and topping
lift.
Puts guy in pole
jaw.
''Prefeed the Guy"
Pulls guy until the
spinn tack reaches
the pole.
Feeds starboard
spinn clew out
companionway.
Vig1lant review of
all lines and gear.
Bears away.
Trims & cleats guy.
Feeds spinn out
comparuonway.
Raises spinn
halyard.
"Hoist the spinnaker"
Trims sheet.
"Douse foresail"
Releases jib sheet.
Releases jib
halyard.
Pulls jib to deck
and secures.
Trims guy.
Safe keeps spinn
halyard.
Keeps trimming
spitm sheet
Eases mainsail
controls.
18
Adjust pole height.
J-BOAT
MANUAL
Jibing The Spinnaker: When the boat jibes, the pole is moved to the other side, and the old
sheet becomes the new guy.
The J/22 and J/24 are easily jibed with a 3 or 4 person crew. With a crew of three, the
positions include helmsperson, trimmer and bowperson. If a fourth person is on board, that
person handles the twings, a pulley system that pulls down on the guy.
Helmsperson. The helmsperson is primarily responsible for steering through the jibe. In order
to keep the spinnaker full, it's important to steer slowly so that dle other crew members have
time to adjust the spinnaker. The helmsperson tries to keep dle bow under the middle of the
spinnaker by keeping track of wind shifts. The helmsperson also pulls the mainsail across to the
other side alerting the crew of the action (they will have many other things on their minds).
Trimmer. Just before the jibe, the trimmer takes both the guy and the sheet. As the
helmsperson turns the boat, the trimmer pulls the guy back and eases dle sheet forward to keep
the spinnaker perpendicular to the apparent wind.
Twing person (optional fourth person). As the jibe begins, the twing person simply eases the
twing off the old guy. After the pole is attached to the new guy and dle jibe is completed, the
twing person trims the twing on the new guy. If dle boat is being sailed by only three people,
dle bowperson can ease and trim the twings.
Bowperson. As the jibe begins, dle bowperson removes the spinnaker pole, first from the
mast, then from the guy. At this time, the spinnaker flies widlout aid from the pole and the
boat begins to turn. The bowperson then attaches the spinnaker pole--first to the new guy and
then to the mast.. For safety, the bowperson must keep his/her face on dle windward side of
dle pole and should keep dleir back to dle mast.
Dousing The Spinnaker: Dousing the spinnaker is as much a scramble as putting it up. The
basic elements are as follows.
19
J·BOAT
MANUAL
Table 4 : Dousing The Spinnaker - Windward Douse
Helmsperson
Trimmer
Twing
Bowperson
"Raise the Jib"
Keeps trimming
spinn
Raises jib halyard.
Checks all lines.
''Tighten the Mainsail"
"Douse the Spinnal(er"
Tightens outhaul
and cunningham.
Releases & frees
spinn sheet and guy.
Pulis spinn into
companionway
from the lee side.
Releases spinn
halyard & topping
lift.
Starts trimming jib.
Stows pole.
Trims mainsail.
Trims jib.
Stows spinn.
Adjusts backstay.
Goes to rail.
Goes to rail.
Skirts jib/genoa if
needed.
Goes to rail
Goes to rail.
Both the] /22 and] /24 have large rudders that make the boats easy to control. Unfortunately,
the large rudder also creates quite a bit of drag, so it's important to use a light touch when
steering. Try to use the weight and sails to adjust your course and turn the tiller gentIy. The
more the boats heal, the more weather helm they exhibit.
The] /24 is unique in that it develops lee helm in light winds. Because of tIus, the boat must be
sailed with some heel in light air to offset the lee helm. The] /22 is sailed witI1 a bit of heel in
very light air, and both boats are sailed as flat as possible as tIle wind builds. A heal of more
tIlan 200 is definitely too much. Use tIle traveler, main sheet, and jib (in large puffs only) to keep
tIle boatflat.
Weigh placement is an important element of boat handling that the beginning J-Boat sailor
often under values. It is a good exercise to try the effect of weight placement in different
conditions. Improper weigh placement will definitely slow a J-Boat enough to loose a race.
Poor weight placement can also lead to poor control of the boat and unsafe conditions.
20
J·BOAT
MANUAL
SEAMANSHIP
The subject of seamanship is very broad and many excellent books have been written about the
subject. This manual will cover only a few of the basics to help you sail safely when these skills
are combined with the Hoofers Club and J/Fleet policies.
A systematic pres ail review of the boat is important to both familiarize yourself and check for
trouble spots. At Hoofers this is especially important due to the large number of people that
use the boats. A ]-Fleet checklist is offered in Part Five of this manuaL
Being small keelboats, the ]-Boats have two characteristics that are different than the Badger
Sloops or scows. First, they have a fixed draft of about 4 feet. This significantly limits the
amount of the lake around tl1e pier, and tl1US the amount of ilie pier, tl1at is available to
maneuver and land. Second, ]-Boats have significant mass and thus momentum in many
circwnstances. Under some conditions ilie ]-Boats will glide 5 boat-lengths or more after fully
unloading the sails.
\V'hile all of the docking techniques for tl1e other Hoofer boats can also be applied to the]Boats, the most forgiving approach is a close-reach landing. A few tips for landings:
./ Be prepared before reaching tl1e dock. Communicate with tl1e crew about who is to
do what and when .
./ Communicate as appropriate to any traffic in tl1e mooring field or at tl1e dock.
./ Have an escape patl1 in case you need it. Communicate tlus to tl1e crew before it is
needed .
./ Have tl1e jib down (a Hoofer policy in tl1e mooring field) for visibility and easier line
handling on tl1e foredeck.
21
J·BOAT
"
"
"
"
MANUAL
Ease the vang.
Fully ease the mainsheet.
Power the mainsail by hand as you approach the dock
Backwind the main if necessary.
Mooring is an exercise that can lead to high levels of excitement. The mooring field is usually
crowded and the practice of a crewmember reaching for the mooring creates many
opportunities for mishap. Communication and preparation are the two most important
ingredients for success. Mooring policies are covered in Part Five, Boat Care and Policies.
\'\!hile the beginning keelboat sailor might think that anchoring is a skill reserved for cruising,
the fact is that anchoring is an important basic skill for all keelboat sailors because of the safety
offered in many types of situations and emergencies.
Your instmctor will show you the anchor, rode (the line between the anchor and the boat) and
how to deploy the equipment.
When deploying the anchor there are two critical points to remember. First, connect the bitter
end of the rode to the boat with a bowline lmot before deploying the anchor. Few people have
the strength to become a human connection between the anchor and the boat.
The second critical point about deploying the anchor is to keep the boat and the crew prepared
until you are certain the anchor is set and holding.
The holding power of an anchor is gready impacted by d1e scope (ratio of rode to water depd1).
This is shown in Figure Y. A larger scope results in the rode's pulling angle being lower thus
helping to keep the anchor set on the bottom. The scope of the rode should typically be
between 3:1 and 7:1 with even larger scopes appropriate in severe conditions.
22
J-BOAT
MANUAl..
7
3 to 1
Scope
to
1
Scope
For light
conditions and
short stays.
For modest conditions and
overnights in protected
anchorages.
Figure 8: Anchoring Scope
When anchoring a sailboat in daylight a black spherical ball should be displayed 010isted)
forward of the mast. lNote that dus is the law on international waters and waters subject to US
Maritime mles as enforced by d1e US Coast Guard. Use of an anchor ball is seldom actually
practiced on Lake Mendota.]
As wid1 all sailboats, heaving-to can be a helpful way of gaining a short break. Because the JBoats are lughly responsive, heaving-to takes a bit of practice and a delicate touch.
The basic approach is d1e same as other boats. Tack through d1e eye of d1e \vind without
resheecing the jib and let the mainsail luff. Then find a balance point with the tiller and release it.
If you are intending to remain like dUs for any duration, and it is safe to do so, lower dle
mainsail to save wear on it.
Emergencies bodl large and small do happen while sailing. Being prepared is d1e best defense.
One type of emergency is a failure of d1e rigging. It is important to learn how to get back safely
if the tiller breaks, dle mainsail becomes inoperable, etc. You instmctor will help you learn how
to address d1ese situations.
Crew overboard is a life-dtreatening situation dlat demands inlffiediate attention. The only way
to be prepared to respond is to be practiced in COB recovery. W1Ule prevention is d1e first line
of defense, d1e ability to actually recover someone is a mandatory skill.
23
J·BOAT
MANUAL
There are many COB recovery methods. Two will be presented here. All COB methods
involve the following steps:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Get floatation to the victim. This also will aid in spotting the victim.
Keep the victim in sight. Designate a spotter. The spotter shoUld NEVER take their
eyes off the victim and should continuously point at the victim.
Get the boat back to the victim quickly and safely.
Stop alongside the victim in a manner that does not further endanger them. This
usually means having the victim on the windward side of the boat so that a) the sails
don't interfere with recovery, and b) the boat doesn't drift over the victim.
Make contact with the victim. First verbally, to establish their condition, then
physically.
Get the victim back on the boat.
The two recovery methods presented here will work in almost any situation. Selection of one
over the other will depend on the comfort level of the skipper and crew and other factors.
24
J-BOAT
MANUAL
Quick Turn (a.k.a. "Figure 8")
:g.
e.,.,.
:~: :::'
'·,f:
.c;,;,
l3';
'.":;-c:
/'
---....,
3, Bear off to a
1.
Jt;
1m,;",
"==
I
/
,/
I
" ' .....' ....... _-~.,/""
.
[6, Head up
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
- ...~\
''\
_/f!~)
/
I
.......
\
~
I
I
I
I
I
I
~,
~,-,--5, Run to below
Vld1m.
I
()fo
~
7. Recover
victim
l
" ........_-- ~/
;
Advantage: Boat handling requires only tacking.
Advantage: Usually easier to continuously spot the victim.
Disadvan~e:
Disadvan
More difficult to continuouslv soot the victim.
25
I 3. Tack
;
6. Head up
1. Throw floatation
2. Assign spotter.
.I-BOAT
.I-BOAT
MANUAL
CARE
AND
POLICIES
26
J·BOAT
MANUAL
Check the current Hoofer policies for rating information. The following is accurate as of the
printing date of this manual
Rating
Benefit
Prerequisite
Skills and Requirements
J/22Ught
Green Flag Sailing
Badger Sloop Heavy
or 420 Heavy and
spinnaker class
See logbook for skills.
J/24 Light
3 J-Fleet work hrs for each
light rating
O'Day 23 Ught
Pay J-Fleet fee.
(Separate Ratings)
For O'Day: skilled to use
accessible lift
J-Fleet Heavy
Green and Blue
(Combined rating also
covering the O'Day 23)
Flag Sailing
J/22 Light
Advanced sailing skills.
Excellent crew
communication.
Conditions awareness.
Demonstrated boat care.
3 J-Fleet work hours
Skipper Rating
Light Wind and Heavy Wind
Rating
J122 Heavy
generally for at
least 2 months, lots of
sailing and approval of Jinstruction supervisor, or
Head 0 fInstruction
Sailing when u\Y' Lifesaving is
not open, following specific
rules.
3 J-Fleet work hours
Demonstrated ability to use
motor, electric equipment.,
marine radio, knowledge of
safety procedures.
Judged capability to use
common sense and sailing
safety skills including in
adverse conditions to assure
safety of crew and
equipment at all times
Excellent seamanship skills.
Being moored, dle small keelboats must be retrieved or sailed direcdy from their moorings. TIle
way dus is accomplished at Hoofers is to obtain a "taxi" ride from a Hoofers motorboat or use
one of the small rowing tenders. As always, any Hoofer motorboat operation is limited to a
motorboat rated member ..Also, since dle motorboats' first priority is to assist in the advent of
any safety-related need, dle sailor should not aSSlillle dlat a motorboat would be immediately
available at dle time dley desire.
27
J·BOAT
MANUAL
Leaving The Mooring: As you leave the buoy, tie one of the old orange neck-ring life jackets
to both mooring lines. TIley are easier to grab than bare lines when landing, and will keep the
lines from getting covered with bottom mud. Note that the motorboats and tenders are not to
be left at the buoy as you sail.
Tying To The Buoy (See Figure 10)
1.
The primary line (the heavier line) should be attached with dle primary line's metal
hook to the hook located just below the bow. (The other end of this primary line
should be, preferably, tied without twists to the base of the buoy.)
2.
The secondary line (lighter line) should be somewhat slack and led through a
chock to the bow cleat in a way that cannot come undone. Therefore, the primary
line has the main load.
The reason for dus type of tying is that if somedUng happens to fue primary, then the
secondary will start taking the load and become tight. This way even somebody on shore can
look at dle buoy and see whedler there is somedUng wrong ,vith the primary based on dle tile
ofdle buoy.
Figure 10 : Mooting Connections
J-22 .
../ Take the tension off fue backstay and boomvang.
../ Cleat dle main sheet so d1at dle boom doesn't freely move around .
../ Cleat dle travelers .
../ Put dle duck fence on Ouly - September)
../ Roll dle jib and the main and place dle jib below.
28
J-BOAT
MANUAL
V Put the sail cover on the main and tie it.
v Remove jib cars and winch handle, and place below.
v Place spinnaker pole below, unless there is place on the deck for the pole.
v Tie off tiller using either a short piece of line
v Coil all lines. If they are on the deck coil then around the winches.
v Put the spinnaker into its sail bag without twists and tie the head tack and clew
together.
a
J-24:
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
Take the tension off the backstay and boomvang.
Cleat the main sheet so that the boom doesn't freely move around.
Cleat the travelers.
Put the duck fence on Guly - September)
Roll main and jib, fold genoa.
Put the sail cover on the main and tie it.
Place the jib and genoa below, but keep sails rdf cushions if the sails are wet.
Place jib blocks, winch handle, spinnaker and jib sheets in the sink.
Pole stays on deck, but make sure it's attached properly to its mount.
Tie off tiller and coil lines as on J / 22.
Put the spinnaker into its sail bag without twists and tie the head tack and clew
together.
O'Day23
v Roll the main and jib, fold the genoa.
v Place thejib and genoa below, but keep sails off cushions if the sails are wet.
v Place the winch handle in the port side shelf.
v Tie off the tiller.
v Cleat the main sheet and coil it.
v Put the duck fence on the boat July - September.
FILL OUT THE ON-BOARD LOGBOOK AFTER EVE'RYSAIL AND ALSO FILL
OUT THE MAINTENANCE SHEET IF NECESSARY AND POST THIS SHEET BY
THE CALENDAR IN THE TUNNEL !
v
v
v
Contact all necessary people when the boat needs any maintenance. These people are:
The Shop Supervisor
The J Fleet/Small Keelboat Fleet Captain
29
.I·BOAT
MANUAL
Below is a list of items that need to be checked each week Of course if a sail gets ripped or a
batten is missing it should be reported. The J-Fleet users do most repairs on the }Fleet.
Date Completed
Person Completing _ _ _ _ _ _ __
1.
Check taping and tensioning of side stay and forestay pins and turnbucldes.
2.
Mooring lines: check above and below the water surface.
3.
Check all cotter pins on turning blocks on the boom and mast and cover
sharp edges.
4.
Check halyard and sheet lines for fraying. Check the halyards for excessive
fraying where they cleat. Reposition the top of the halyard (where the sail connects) to prolong
the life of the halyards.
5.
Clean above deck and in the cabin. Remove excess trash.
6.
Wash inside of boat (once a month).
7.
Report all problems in writing to both the
maintenance log (at its current location).
8.
Check sails for problems. (Can be done by regular sailors, hopefully.)
9.
Review checklist of all regular equipment on each boat, including the antiduck system and make recommendations for improvements.
10.
Update the log on each boat.
Comments:
30
J
fleet captain and on the
J
J-BOAT
MANUAL
RESOURCES
FOR
FURTHER
LEARNING
There are many resources available for learning more about the J/22 and J/24. Some of the
best information is readily available on the World Wide Web. The following are good initial
starting points and offer links to sites with tremendous information about performance tuning
and specific class racing mles:
J Boats, Inc.: www.jboats.com
J /22 Class Association: www.j22class.org
J/24 Class Association: www.j24class.org
Hoofers strongly encourages JBoat sailors to purchase and study the Basic Keelboat Mallital by
US Sailing which is available at the Hoofers' Boat House. This has a wealth of infotwation
covering seamanship, boat handling, weather and sail trim.
The book The Art and Science of Sails: A guide to Modern Materials, Construction,
Aerodynamics, Upkeep and Use, by Tom Whidden and Michael Levitt is a modern classic.
The Annapolis Book of Seamanship and Chapman Piloting are two foundations for
seamanship and navigation for any keelboat sailor looking to broaden their understanding and
are essential for sailors pursuing adventuresome circumstances.
The J/22 and J/24 are very popular racing boats across the country and around the world. An
essential element of any serious racing is an understanding of the Racillg &t!es rifSailljlg published
by US Sailing (www.ussailing.org). Also, Paul Elvstrom Explains the Racing Rules of Sailing will
offer the student a faster padl to understanding than simply reading dle mles dlemselves.
The foundations for racing are sail trim and boat handling. An excellent book for this
Perfornlance Racing Trim, by Bill Gladstone, published by Nordl U (as in North Sails).
1S
Racing tactics is a lifetime of study for dle serious racer. A great starting reference of dus
subject is Performance Racing Tactics by Bill Gladstone.
31