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Forum LockedSail cloth condition
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SecondSally View Drop Down
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Joined: 30 April 2012
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Points: 3 		Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote SecondSally Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Topic: Sail cloth condition
    Posted: 30 April 2012 at 8:38pm
I have a fully battened mainsail that is 7 years old, but still in good shape.  The stitching is still good and except for several chafe spots on the batten pockets it was holding up pretty well.  Took it down for routine maintenance and while wrestling it around the machine caused several new "tears" just by pulling out a wrinkle in the fabric.  What method is used for determining the condition of the cloth in a sail?  Is this one shot? Thanks
Marie Cruising on a Peterson 44 Sailboat
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MattGrant View Drop Down
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Points: 3012 		Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote MattGrant Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 01 May 2012 at 8:14am
Generally a sailmaker will grab the fabric on either side of a rip and pull. If under moderate tension the material rips further easily, it it time to replace the sail. This is a sign of sun rot. But in most cases repairs can still be done to keep the sail in service so long as one does not mind making frequent repairs. So given that you have your own sewing machine it might be viable to continue to add patches. Good luck!
Best Regards,
Matt Grant
Sailrite
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SecondSally View Drop Down
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Points: 3 		Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote SecondSally Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 02 May 2012 at 6:33pm
Ouch Since we are full time cruisers, getting ready to cross the Atlantic at the end of the month, this won't work for me.  Even taking down the main at the dock is a chore( it weighs 55 lbs).  Trying to do this underway and/or in bad weather is a no go.  New main sail here we come.
Marie Cruising on a Peterson 44 Sailboat
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MattGrant View Drop Down
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Joined: 21 April 2005
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Points: 3012 		Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote MattGrant Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 03 May 2012 at 10:50am
I agree, it is time for a new sail!
Best Regards,
Matt Grant
Sailrite
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