I would not recommend any type of cleat that swivels around the main block. You can't properly play the main because those cleats are hard to release. I would recommend just the Harken 019 or equivalent. If you MUST have a cleat mount two on the deck on either side of the mainsheet block
This business about mainsheet control systems is one of personal preference, the question that has arisen out of this is, Do the Sunfish Class rules allow for a variety of mainsheet systems? The Sunfish is about a basically rigged as they come, this is good in that it prevents the techies with more money than skill from trying to buy a win. However there are some cheap bits that if they could be added would make things a bit freer running, such as small blocks for the outhaul and cunningham, these are dirt cheap, but are they class legal? There is no point slapping hardware all over the spars and deck if the stuff ain't legal, this just affects the resale of the dinghy as a "Sunfish"
Here’s a setup I've found workable.My boat currently has no type of mainsheet system other than the little clip on the lip of the cockpit. I want to be able to go hands free at times
Here’s a setup I've found workable.
Put a ratchet block (your choice) on a small swivel base (any make that fits) by swapping out the bullseye for an eyestrap. The low profile base places the cam cleat well below the mainsheet’s exit from the ratchet block so it helps to avert unintentional cleating when partially hiked out. This works very well for a deck mount setup.
The cleat’s base plate can even be angled down a little to facilitate release from a moderate hiked out position. Keep in mind the base plate still has to clear the deck in its turning arc so don’t angle it too far. It’s not recommended to cleat the main sheet in heavy air or gusty conditions, though this is a self-correcting tactical error as previously pointed out.
In competition or on days of strong wind the cam cleat can be turned away, 180 so only the block is used, further reducing the threat of the mainsheet getting hung on the swivel base and cleat.
BOM (2009 APS catalog)
Mainsheet Block H019 Price: $57.21
Swivel Base w/ Carbo-Cam and Bullseye H241 Price: $55.38
Eyestrap $2
Spring $2
Short screws $.80
Thanks ... but I can't take the credit. The low profile swivel base with a bullseye -or- block -or- ratchet block has been in use by Sunfish sailors for over 30 years.Saves some money
Now if you are really cheap and can't seem to kick the habit of cleating when you shouldn't, this is another solution. This is my '78, the boat I lend friends and use for lessons.
I rarely cleat off, my arms and hands are accustom to holding the sheet for extended periods. Not a strong-man thing, more a dicipline you gain with practice. ...and there's always the old stand-bys: leg wrap, denture crunch, butt pinch, toe grab, and foot hold for quick position changes in the cockpit.How often do you need to cleat off
I rarely cleat off, my arms and hands are accustom to holding the sheet for extended periods. Not a strong-man thing, more a dicipline you gain with practice. ...and there's always the old stand-bys: leg wrap, denture crunch, butt pinch, toe grab, and foot hold for quick position changes in the cockpit.
I cleat when I heave-to or when the wind is light ... when I'm sitting down in the cockpit, PFD for a backrest, feet up on the deck, racing the flotsom and Water Striders.