188 seamanship secrets
(when sailing on or off the wind) and the boom vang (when sailing off
the wind) for further leech control.
Boom vang. When you’re sailing off the wind and the boom is eased
past the edge of the boat, the mainsheet becomes ineff ective in limiting
leech twist. Without some help, the end of the boom lift s up and the sail
bellies like a pregnant whale. Enter the boom vang. Set vang tension just
enough to keep the boom level and the leech under control. Leave a bit of
slack in the vang to prevent boom distortion.
Trav el e r. Position the mainsheet traveler car on the traveler track to keep
the boat balanced with good drive. In light to moderate winds, shape the leech
fi rst; then move the traveler car if you need to open up the leech as the wind
freshens. Racing sailors oft en play the traveler more than the mainsheet when
sailing close-hauled.Mainsail parts and controls.