Controls

Last update, December 27, 2009

Internal and Cockpit

1. Winch: RMG Smartwinch. The unit is programmable for the number or things, is compatible with the 2.4GHz radio systems. The winch operates the jib and mainsail booms at the same time through a sheetline system. This is still the finest winch in the world. More detailed information, here.

2. Jib Trim Servo: The sheetline for the jib passes through the servo arm block and changes the length of the line. This in turn moves the jib independent to the main. Control of this servo is by the control of choice on the transmitter. Generally, this is a rotating knob.

3. Twitcher Servo: This control is allowed in the Class but is very seldom seen in the rigging. Control of this servo is some full servo control of choice on the transmitter. A long arm is center mounted on the servo and when rotated will change the length of lines to the forward part of the jib boom. This action will pull the jib to one side or the other at the choice of the captain. These lines have bowsie adjusters. When this servo is in the neutral position, the jib will swing freely.

4. Rudder Servo and Linkage: Control of this servo is generally by the right stick (aileron) on the transmitter. This is a self-centering stick. The length of the connecting rod between the servo and the rudder tiller can be changed for centering the rudder and/or the transmitter trim control.

5. System Board: This is an integrated electronics and sheetline system in one unit. It places all settings for the sheeting within the hull or by the radio transmitter.

Mast

6. Jumper Wires: A slide adjuster at the top of the mast can lessen mast above the spreaders caused by tension on the backstay.

7. Backstay Adjuster: Changes tension on the backstay which, is transmitted to the jibstay. This tension changes the sag and entry angle of the jib luff. Adjustment is determined by sailing conditions and sail design. This is generally set by a tension meter, in pounds from a chart familiar to the captain.

8. Upper Shrouds: Tension adds stability to the upper mast and, in part aligns the mast athwartships.

9. Lower Shrouds: Tension adds stability to the middle of the mast and, in part aligns the mast athwartships.

10. Lower/Lower Shrouds: Tension the leading edge of the mast at the main boom gooseneck. This prevents forward movement of the lower mast as wind pressure increases.

11. Mast Step: A mounting plate for the mast with a series of fore and aft positions for changing the Center of Effort of the boat by changing the position of the mast.

12. Jib Swivel Adjustment: Changes the rake of the mast.

13. Mast Bend: Bend is controlled by tension and position of the lower shrouds and adjustment in tension of the jumper wires. Bend affects the entry angle of the mainsail, the draft depth and changes the shape of the camber at selected portions of the sail.

Mainsail and Boom

14. Vang: Adjusts twist in the upper parts of the mainsail by changing tension in the leech with vertical movement of the boom.

15. Clew Adjuster: Adjusts the depth of the draft and alters the camber of the sails.

16. Sheetline Adjuster: Sets the horizontal angle of the boom referenced to the centerline of the boat.

17. Downhaul: Places tension on the luff of the sail from the tack. This tension influences the position of the draft fore and aft within the camber.

Jibsail and Boom

18. Topping Lift: A line and adjuster that changes the tension on the leech which in turn, changes the twist of the sail.

19. Clew Adjuster: Adjusts the depth of the draft and alters the camber of the sails.

20. Sheetline Adjuster: Sets the horizontal angle of the boom referenced to the centerline of the boat.

21. Uphaul: Places tension on the luff of the sail from the head. This tension influences the position of the draft fore and aft within the camber. Some will rig this control as a downhaul where tension adjustment is on the boom and connected to the tack of the sail. Each has one in the same effect.

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