Date: 9/13/2006
Name: Michael Chesser
email: mschesser@cavtel.net
subject:Interesting Questions
For those of you not already aware, I recently completed a move to Virginia and may have missed some emails while in the process, so please note the new email address. (My old address mchesser@carolin.rr.com will remain active for a while.)Once in place I received a second request to the following questions from an individual that I felt I would share along with my responses. I have deliberately not included this individual's identity. Here are the original questions along with my responses.
I appreciate the questions this individual raised because they highlight the importance of not making modifications without first seeking appropriate rulings and/or interpretations. We need to maintain the One Design integrity of our boats to protect the Class.
1. What was the final wording for the construction of the tiller? Also would it be legal to have a tiller that could be extended?
Response: A change in the Class Specifications was approved that now allows non-wooden tillers. As for tiller extensions...tiller extensions are not specifically disallowed and many individuals routinely utilize flexible joint and/or extendable tiller extensions to accomplish an extension of the filler. However, I think your question may relate specifically to extending the tiller itself, ie, making it longer. Although this is not specifically dissallowed, I would recommend you consider the safety considerations associated with extending the tiller handle in relation to the mainsheet system. If you have a specific tiller modification in mind, I suggest you sketch or better define the modification and submit it for a more formal ruling.
2. Does the aft gasket/fairing flap have to be constructed of aluminum?
Response: Please note 3.4, Article IV, 4, Keel: ......Keel gaskets that obstruct keel movement are prohibited. "Original" size and shape gasket battens must be in place on bottom of boat on both sides of keel slot. All types of gaskets must allow the cockpit to drain at the same rate as the "original" cloth type gasket."
Note that the specific material for the keel gasket battens is not controlled, but the size and shape are controlled. Non-aluminum batten materials are not restricted as long as these criteria are met. Likewise, the gasket material itself is not controlled other than its influence on drain rate and keel movement/obstruction. However, I think you may be referring to the plate type gasket mechanism commonly referred to as the Mann Gasket. In this case, that system was specifically approved at the time and in part led to the current by-law/spec wording. Again, if you have a specific modification in mind, I strongly recommend that you submit details of any proposed modification you may have in mind IN ADVANCE of making a change and request a specific ruling before assuming a change can be made based on your own interpretation.
3. Some people have mounted tracks on the underside of their booms. On that track is a headknocker mounted on a slide. These tracks often extend further forward than 36” from the aft black band on the boom. My contention has been that this is illegal … but they don’t think so. What do you think?
Response: A track mounted mainsheet system, including a headknocker system is not specifically disallowed. However, per 3.4, Article IV, 9, Mainsheet does state "All parts of the mainsheet shall lead between the boat and a block or blocks on the boom any distance up to and including 36" in front of the black band." My official interpretation of this would be that the 36" dimension is a "Maximum".
The question you raise could easily be interpreted as a "grey" area unless the described systems contain a provision/mechanism that ensures that the boom mounted block does not ever move further forward than the allowed 36". Situations like this ar are why, as Chief Measurer, I suggest that proposed modification be submitted for review, interpretation, and comments BEFORE installation. As Cheif Measurer, if I were to see such a device on a boat at a sanctioned regatta that COULD allow movement forward of the 36" limit while racing, I would officially ask the owner to make the necessary modification to ensure that the boom mounted block cannot be moved forward of the 36" requirement. I would officially recommend disqualification of the vessel until such modification is completed. As a sailor, such a system in use in an unconstrained mode might be considered grounds for a protest if the Notice of Race and/or Sailing Instructions reference the Class Association By-Laws/Specifications.
Unfortunately, with the limited information I have available at this time I cannot officially make a ruling on this specific device/system. I can, and will, officially rule on such a device if provided with more details and a specific request to do so.
4. I think I know the answer to this one .. Can I race with a roller furling jib?
Response: You are correct...Roller furling devices are allowed while racing. See 2.7, Article VII, paragraph 7
Michael Chesser Chief Measurer
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