Attaching a Ratchet w/out inspection port

[hiltonfh]

I have a 1975 sunfish I bought this summer. The hull is as dry as a bone. I want to add a ratchet for the mainsheet and was wondering if there is anyway to do this without cutting a 5" hole in the deck????

If I have to add the port where should it be placed?

After setting the boat up like this, is there any place to secure the mainsheet when you need a free hand? I have heard that the placement of a swivel lead with a cleat is not a good idea in higher winds (may get stuck). Any thoughts?

Thanks in advance!!!!

Woody

 

[Repete]

No port is needed. There is plenty of space under the lip where the old "hook" used to be. You will want to remove the old mainsheet hook if you haven't already. Check out this post on the same subject and look especially at post number #21 with the great photos. Great upgrade. Good luck.


http://www.sunfishforum.com/showthread.php?t=2967&highlight=harken+019

 

[hiltonfh]

Thanks. After taking a good look at it I was there was plenty of space.

 

[Fred P]

If you don't remove the hook and are not under a lot of pressure (e.g. in a race) you can always put a slip knot in the sheet and put it on the hook.
I notice that everybody hates the hook but it can still be useful. I have both the hook and a block and have never had a skinned knee or any other problem with the hook, maybe because but I don't race.

Fred