I'm thinking about getting an adjustable downhaul for my raceboard, but I'm not sure if it's worth the extra effort.

Does anyone advocate having an adjustable downhaul?

It is worth it! With smaller sails and if just using one sail it is a must. With big formula sails you need only boom trims.
1001

I've just started racing longboards, and I'm surprised at how few boards are rigged with an adjustable downhaul, given how much impact downhaul has on sail trim.

I find I am constantly adjusting downhaul when sailing recreationally to get the rig 'just right' or to adjust to changing conditions..

How do you setup an adjustable downhaul rig?

Reason why don´t see downhaul trims very often is that lately manufacturers have made only formula sails and they are not meant to be adjusted more than once on the beach.
Other reason is that it is impossible to explain how setup those trims, you have to see them, and lot of sailors just don´t know how to.
Pictures of working downhaul trims is a good idea, hello admin!!!
1001

Alot of sailors at my club use the adjustable downhaul either on an IMCO 7.4, old KA's or custom raceboard sails we have got made at a local sail-maker (Barracouta Sails - Racing sails - shape & rigging)

In the meantime here are a few shots I found of an adjustable downhaul that works but is not text-book.

I can´t put those pictures in words...

That's all I have....... check back after the weekend.

Eh, Rob don´t misunderstand me, pictures were OK! It is just that I can´t explain those pictures with probably less than thousend words. Great, if you can get more pics!
1001

Thanks for the feedback - how do you run the ropes/pulleys through the mast base (obviously you can't run through the cleat)?

Here is some more pics. This a custom system, all fittings you can get from a boating place.

And some more...

Thanks for the feedback. I will install an adjustable downhaul soon - probably when I buy a new sail for next season.

NP do an RSX one - for 99 Euros. Saw one being demonstrated when . .. bang.. another NP mast becomes a three piece.

Nice video of the sail trims on 'Winning Streak' http://www.acrobat-tv.co.uk/shop/Produc ... indsurfing

I see in the photos that you've attached the top of the downhaul line to the mast above the boom using a hitch. Why do you attach it in this manner, rather than simply tie it to the boom?

As I see it, when the wind picks up and you need to increased the force is in the line, a hitch is best as the least pressure is applied to the mast. If you attached the line to the boom you would have to attach the boom to the mast very tightly to avoid the boom slipping down the mast while sailing. I don't like to do this because the very tight clamping action could crack or damage the mast.

Thanks - that makes sense.

By the way, I've found that Harken offer a v-jam block that has ball bearings in it and should be better quality than the non-ball bearing blocks:

http://www.harkenstore.com/uniface.urd/ ... MEB9Y994S4

Incredible, I just replaced the mainsheet fiddle block on my large sailboat, and these windsurfer adjustable downhauls look about the same. Never thought I'd live to see those on a windsurfer...

Getting back to the mast attachment - is it better to use a rope (as per the photo) or a thin piece of webbing (to spread the load)?

I sailed with the adjustable downhaul last weekend. It was great - I can't see myself ever sailing without it. Highly recommended for all racers to use one.