Rigging Tips, Hardware & Gadgets

Sandy Douglass provides technical advice on the new method of sheeting jib leaders inside the main shrouds instead of outside. He explains that this rigging setup allows boats to point higher and simplifies jib trim in heavy weather, and emphasizes proper technique and sheet length.

Announcement that Douglass & McLeod has developed new rigging methods using mechanical attachments instead of silver-soldered joints. The article provides detailed information about new stainless steel components and includes a complete price list for replacement parts.

Art Frager provides sailing tips including advice on adjusting the halyard and forestay. He recommends laying a board flat between the warped load keel and a couple of 2 X 4 blocks to straighten the centerboard, and using a bumper jack for straightening the keel.

Collection of sailing tips and boat modification ideas, including advice on various rigs, equipment, and solutions to common sailing problems.

A technical column offering practical advice and improvements for Thistle boat construction and maintenance, discussing floating tanks, leaks, and various hardware modifications.

Humorous letter to the editor complaining about the difficulty of maintaining and repairing crankshafts on THISTLE boats. Writer suggests designing an unbreakable crank similar to a power screwdriver that would slip under strain rather than break.

A technical column describing practical modifications to boom fittings, specifically how to add extra space on the boom by extending the mainsail track using knots and notches for easy tension adjustment.

A description of a specialized boom crutch design that allows steering by the tiller while centered, featuring heavy-gauge aluminum construction and screwing attachment to the transom.

Practical tip for automatically centering the tiller using a snap hook, cord, and the aft grating to prevent loss of the tiller over the side.

A comprehensive technical article analyzing standard Thistle fittings and proposing improvements to make them more reliable and durable. Topics covered include halyard sheaves, spreaders, winch improvements, and various hardware modifications endorsed by experienced Fleet 1 sailors.

An article seeking practical design solutions for three recurring problems in Thistles: an effective boom vang, adjustable jib sheet fairleads, and a non-splitting rudder design.

A technical column by Roger Moorman discussing various boat building materials and construction methods for Thistlers. Moorman describes colonial woodworking techniques, water-resistant materials, boat construction practices, and various rigging and hardware innovations that builders can use to improve their boats.

Sandy Douglass provides technical advice on various Thistle fittings and hardware, addressing questions about shave pins, halyard construction, jib downhaul mechanisms, winches, and other boat equipment. He discusses common problems and practical solutions for maintaining and improving Thistle boat fittings.

The annual meeting voted on various rigging and equipment modifications for Thistle boats. Hiking straps and several other items were prohibited, while regulations were clarified on spinnaker poles, working sails, and hull specifications. The new rules take effect immediately and will be enforced in all official races.

An article describing the benefits of mooring boats on rafts rather than conventional moorings, with details from Roger Waite's design and the author's experience with 17-boat mooring raft at Fleet 1 in Atlanta. Discusses improvements, advantages, and precautions for tie-downs.

Technical drawings and specifications for a mooring raft design with two tiers of cradles for mooring boats. Includes materials list and detailed construction measurements for building a raft system.

A brief notice about a new device called the 'Beach-A-Boat' that provides an effective and convenient means of berthing boats out of water, offering an alternative to traditional hauling and launching methods.

A comprehensive examination of jib sheet rigging systems used on Thistles. The article compares five common methods: the original Douglass rig, blocks with snubbing winch, two-part jib sheets, automatic cleats, and bulking jam cleats. Each system is evaluated for advantages and disadvantages in various wind conditions.

Communication from Adelette Horton Crowe of Fleet 17 regarding the continued use of hiking straps on Thistles, and reporting racing results from Fleet 17 fall series with Harry Shinde winning.

Fritz Keetor has designed and built a new mooring raft that addresses concerns raised in recent newsletters. The innovative design features removable rollers and a galvanized pulley system, making it easier to launch boats while maintaining structural integrity.

Technical column featuring practical rigging solutions and equipment improvements for Thistle boats, including diagrams and discussions of fairleads, winches, and boom vang systems for improved sailing efficiency.

A technical column presenting a useful design for a tiller hook modification that improves handling and prevents unwanted tilting movement. The proposal addresses a common problem that Thistle sailors face during races.

A technical column by Roger Waite of Rocky River discussing various boat improvements and sailing gadgets. The article covers a turnbuckle jaw design contributed by Logan Goar, a stainless steel rod system from Jack Barnes, boom vang designs discussed by Corinthian Waite and Ted Wells, and various other modifications to improve Thistle performance and handling.

Technical article with diagrams showing two different methods for hoisting boats using lifts and hiking straps. Includes specifications for cable, steel rings, and attachment points, with practical guidance for boat owners constructing their own equipment.

Column discussing various boat equipment innovations including belt lifts for hoisting and hiking straps. Provides practical information about equipment selection and installation methods for Thistle sailing.

A technical column by Chief Measurer George A. Devlin discussing boom vangs, rigging improvements, and answers to sailors' questions about equipment and modifications. Includes discussion of winchs, rope systems, and stainless steel components.

Technical column about the proper use and tightening of the boom vang to prevent mast damage and improve boat control during sailing.

Technical article describing an inexpensive solution for reefing invented by Dave Minton, featuring a cut-down halyard winch mounted on the mast that enables single-handed reef control.

The editor reflects on editorial duties, welcomes pictures for the publication, and discusses recent correspondence regarding boat construction and modifications, including topics raised by Ron Small about boom and mast attachments.

Technical article warning about the dangers of jibing and advocating for a modified jibing technique called the 'Swedish' or 'North River' jibe, which prevents the boom from being carried away by rigging.

Practical tips for boat carriers and cruising comfort, including advice on doubling up loads on trailers and a description of a custom sunshade designed for a Thistle.

Product advertisement and technical description for a custom centerboard winch designed to fit between Thistle stanchions with 8:1 mechanical advantage, including pricing and installation options.

Description of an innovative outhaul winch device designed for Thistles, made from laminated plastic wood and brass, that can be adjusted using a standard Thistle crank for precise outhaul tensioning in varying wind conditions.

Technical note describing a new mounting system for centerboard winches designed by Andrew Court of Detroit. The design eliminates difficulties in reaching the winch when on the lee side in strong winds and keeps cables inside the trunk using a fixed pulley system.

Product announcement for Doug Westin's new Thistle centerboard winch with improved bearing design, offering conversion kits and new winches at competitive prices.

An article about automatic bailers recently introduced for Thistle boats. The author describes testing two varieties of bailers, which required specific conditions and speeds to work properly, including mishaps and eventual success at boat speeds over 8 knots.

Heinzerling discusses various boat modifications and sailing techniques to improve Thistle performance and comfort. Topics include centerboard modifications, sail adjustments, hardware improvements, and practical modifications for cruising and racing efficiency.

Product description of a clever jib-sheet gadget invented by Wheat Cleveland of the Fairhope Yacht Club that simplifies trimming the jib sheet.

Advertisement and product feature for Bello Bailers, a self-bailing device designed specifically for small sailboats, with explanation of how the device works and testimonials from successful Thistle racers.

Detailed product advertisement for the new Bello Bailer self-bailing device, including technical specifications, operational details, and testimonial from Doug Westin about how the bailer improved his racing performance.

A Thistle Gadgets column describing spring-loaded reels that can be mounted on the centerboard trunk to manage rope during sailing, preventing tangles and improving control.

An erratum correcting a previous article about using clothesline to tail lines on a boat, crediting Richard 'Rick' Stephens as the author.

National Champion Bruce Goldsmith explains the rigging of jib sheets using movable blocks, providing detailed specifications for achieving reliable handling under various wind conditions.

National Champ Bruce Goldsmith says PEARSHARPE's jib sheets are rigged with movable blocks on the seat and cleat-base cam action jambs on the thwart. The only significant differences in this rig are about 90% of all other Thistles is that the cam action cleats face downward.

A continuation of technical discussion about Thistle sailing techniques and rigging issues, focusing on various jib rigging solutions and their effectiveness in different conditions.

Advertisement article promoting SWEETCO's mainsheet control problem solution. The company offers a SAFETY control device for family sailing with an easy-reach mainsheet in the cockpit.

Comprehensive guide to preparing Thistle boats for the sailing season, covering maintenance of hardware, fasteners, bowplates, rigging, and various structural components. Addresses tank leakage, jib tack connections, grating inspection, and preparations for proper boat operation.

A comprehensive guide to preparing Thistle boats for the sailing season, covering tank and locker securing, spray leaks, buoyancy issues, rudder maintenance, fitting adjustments, and various hardware checks. The article addresses common problems and provides practical solutions for rigging, centerboard systems, and structural fasteners.

Continuation of the comprehensive fitting-out guide covering additional maintenance and preparation topics for Thistle boats before the racing season begins.

Short note on a February Bagpipe photo showing boat 573 with luffing jib, reporting that the boat finished second in that race. Lonesome George Hills has received 26 calls about how to tighten a jib.

The TCA Handbook is available for $2 per copy through the Secretary's Office and contains many articles on racing, rigging, maintenance, and finishing by Thistle authors. Supply is limited.

Jack Sayre explains a simple method for turning a Thistle over in the garage for maintenance purposes using only pulleys and rope. The technique requires no special boat modifications and maintains safety by allowing the boat to rest on the gunnels.

Ralph Kelley from the Sacramento Fleet describes a homemade wind pennant designed to help sailors see their masthead better. The device is fabricated from piano wire and features an oversized design with acetate construction.

Technical article providing detailed guidance on equipment modifications and rigging practices for Thistle Class boats, including spinnaker equipment, selfbailer modifications, and periscope bailer design changes to improve sailing performance and handling.

Comprehensive technical article about Thistle equipment modifications and improvements. Discusses spinnaker handling, bailer modifications, deck fittings, and various rigging improvements with detailed explanations and diagrams.

A step-by-step technical guide for improving rudder-tiller connections by tightening and reinforcing the joint. The article provides detailed instructions for fabricating stainless steel reinforcement components to reduce play and improve steering control.

Practical guide to fixing rudder-tiller connections for improved steering control. Provides step-by-step instructions for tightening the joint between rudder and tiller using metal rods and fastening methods.

A technical drawing and description of boom vang rigging using a multiple purchase system for improved control and efficiency. Includes detailed materials list and specifications for constructing the rig.

Technical article on boom vang design and construction for Thistle racing. Includes detailed diagram showing a powerful 8:1 advantage configuration with materials list and assembly instructions.

A comprehensive technical guide covering garage tuning and trailer maintenance for Thistle owners, including detailed instructions on mast positioning, rigging, fittings, sails, crew weight considerations, and other practical sailing advice.

A showcase of new sailing equipment and fittings available for Thistle owners, featuring three products with descriptions and pricing information.

Technical specifications and detailed diagram showing construction details for an adjustable main sheet traveler system for Thistle boats.

Comprehensive how-to guide for new Thistle owners on tuning and maintaining their boats at home, covering garage setup, trailer adjustments, mast positioning, rigging, sail configuration, crew considerations, and detailed tuning techniques for competitive sailing.

Showcase of new equipment and fittings available for Thistle sailors, including a through-rail turning block, racing compass, and spinnaker pole fitting, with product descriptions and pricing.

Technical article with detailed diagram showing a standard adjustable traveler design for Thistle main sheet control, explaining its purpose and advantages for fleet and competitive sailing.

Technical article with detailed diagrams showing three different mainsheet traveler systems that can be used on Thistles, including specifications and prices for low-cost alternatives.

Technical article describing different mainsheet traveler systems available for Thistles, including details on construction methods, cost, and effectiveness of various rig configurations.

Technical maintenance guide for preventing equipment failures during heavy air racing. Covers inspection of halyards, jib tack fitting, boom hardware, mast and rigging, and provides practical advice on maintaining and checking equipment before competitions.

Technical article with detailed photographs illustrating the proper rigging and fit of a Thistle sailboat, covering mast step positioning, boom adjustments, fittings, and other hardware configurations essential for competitive sailing performance.

Illustrated technical guide to proper Thistle boat and trailer setup for transportation, with detailed steps for leveling, adjusting mast step position, boom height, and other critical tuning elements to ensure optimal boat condition during trailering.

Step-by-step photographic guide on how to properly tune and set up a Thistle on its trailer, covering boat level, mast positioning, and adjustments for optimal rig performance.

Practical guide for new Thistle owners on essential rigging and equipment priorities, with advice on initial boat setup, recommended upgrades, and tips for achieving comfort and safety on the water.

Practical guide for new Thistle sailors on rigging priorities and equipment choices, organized by priority level from essential first-year items to desirable later additions, with emphasis on safety and comfort.

Technical explanation of Cunningham Rings, their purpose, installation, usage, advantages and disadvantages in Thistle sailing, including comparisons to traditional methods of sail adjustment.

Continuation of technical discussion on Cunningham Rings covering disadvantages, installation specifications, and considerations for sail adjustment and boat performance.

Comprehensive technical article explaining Cunningham Rings (also called Coker Rings), their purpose, advantages, disadvantages, and how they function in adjusting mainsail tension on Thistle sailboats.

Technical explanation and diagram of the Cunningham Hole feature for Thistle sails, showing both released and tightened positions. Discusses maintenance and mechanics of this sail adjustment system.

Technical article detailing methods for inventing a Thistle hull, including how to mark reference points and use specialized equipment for safe inversion and hull work.

Technical article describing the author's innovative method for single-handedly inverting a Thistle hull for inspection and maintenance, using carefully designed rigging and mechanical advantage with wire chains, tackle, and hoists.

Technical article about boom outhaul rigging with detailed diagrams and explanation of construction for proper tension control and draft management.

Technical article describing a new outhaul mechanism similar to the one in the Land's End Equipment Guide, providing detailed instructions for installation using standard fittings and aircraft pulley components.

Detailed technical diagrams showing top view, bottom view, and longitudinal section of an outhaul mechanism with measurements and component specifications for builders.

Caufield provides detailed technical notes on a jib furling device design, including construction details, measurements, and photographs of the device for easy rigging and deployment during racing.

Mitchell describes the design and construction of transom flaps for improved flotation, detailing materials, dimensions, and assembly methods. The article includes technical drawings and explains how the flaps function to enhance stability and keep the stern lower in the water.

Mitchell provides detailed technical instructions for constructing and installing transom flaps on a Thistle, including materials needed, dimensions, and the benefits of this modification for boat handling and speed.

Technical notes on a jib furling device including materials, construction details, and operational specifications for this alternative draft control mechanism.

Technical article describing the Clark jib halyard adjustment latch mechanism, a device that allows sailors to raise and lower the jib without removing the possibility of back lashing on the winch. Includes detailed diagrams and cost breakdown for constructing the adjustment system.

Photographic essay of rigging details showing lightweight drums for CB and vang, cleat mounting arrangements, and boom vang systems used on Thistle boats, with captions explaining the construction and mechanical advantages.

Comprehensive technical article discussing recent innovations in rigging and tuning for Thistle sailboats, including details on mainsheet equipment, traveler control, boom vang systems, spinnaker handling, and various cleat options and mounting strategies.

Illustrated article showing sketches and descriptions of new equipment innovations for 1969 including a new Haven traveler, wind vane cleater, Waco 360 device, and compass configuration, with humorous comments about each innovation.

A comprehensive guide to rigging the Thistle, covering mast rigging, boom setup, centerboard and rudder control, jib lead positioning, and tuning procedures for optimal performance.

An article discussing modern rigging trends and equipment recommendations for Thistles, including information about mainsheets, cam cleats, compass systems, and various hardware options for improving performance.

A visual feature showing sketches and illustrations of new sailing equipment options and innovations for Thistles, including rigging hardware and gear developments.

Illustrated guide showing three types of transom flap installations approved for Thistle boats, with descriptions of the most common plastic plate design, D&M vertical hinge installation, and Ellie Boat Works standard design.

Technical photo feature showing boat fitting details, specifically how wire leads are positioned at the aft and forward ends of the boom for a Seabird Winch installation.

Technical specifications and feature comparisons of equipment used on competitive Thistles, including traversom, batteries, traveler types, and sail controls.

Photo feature showing the process of outfitting a Thistle boat with a clever and inexpensive rigging approach using a drum ratchet system.

Photo essay with detailed caption about an innovative and reversible approach to a fail-jib halliard system. Shows clever mechanical engineering using a drum and ratchet.

Advertisement for a free Thistle Tuning Guide available from Murphy-Nye sailmakers for all Thistle owners.

Announcement of the availability of the Murphy & Nye "Thistle Tuning Guide", a free reference document for Thistle owners with reprinted articles on setting and trimming techniques.

A detailed technical article explaining the purpose and use of the Cunningham (or uker) hole for adjusting luff tension in mainsails, with diagrams showing proper positioning and rigging.

Technical article with photographs demonstrating boat rigging ideas and hardware solutions, including rope fasteners, rudder solutions, spinnaker pole arrangements, and trailer support designs to improve boat maintenance and handling.

A column featuring photographs and detailed descriptions of boat rigging and maintenance improvements. The article showcases various aftermarket products and DIY solutions for Thistle boat setup, including spreader options, spinnaker pole systems, and trailer support modifications.

Technical discussion among Thistle experts about the proper use and adjustment of the traveler system. Topics include racing applications, control methods, and expert recommendations from Fuller Moore, Irv Liggett, and Cliff Siegh.

A comprehensive guide to lightening overweight Thistle boats through removal of hardware, centerboard, mast, hull material, and other components, including detailed recommendations on which elements to modify and expected weight savings.

Technical guide to building an inexpensive boat cradle for maintenance and repair work. Includes materials list, framework design, and bunker specifications with detailed diagrams.

A detailed guide with diagrams for building a simple, inexpensive, and versatile boat cradle using basic materials and tools, including dimensions and installation instructions for the hull bunker supports.

A brief notice warning Thistle sailors that the use of Twings is prohibited under Chief Measurer's Ruling #26.

First in a series of detailed technical articles on Thistle rigging, focusing on different approaches to rigging the main halyard and the advantages and disadvantages of each method, with illustrations by Bruce Bingham.

Technical article featuring detailed sketches and descriptions of three different centerboard trunk cap control systems used on Thistle sailboats, explaining how various boom vang cleats and jib sheet configurations work in practice.

Second in a series of technical sketches showing various centerboard trunk cap control systems used on Thistle boats. Illustrates different rigging approaches including wood boats, glass boats, and alternative control methods.

Detailed technical article on constructing a high-performance Thistle rudder, including materials selection, tools needed, dimensions, construction techniques, finishing methods, and detailed diagrams for reference.

A controversial column by Harry Sindle arguing in favor of adopting hiking straps for the Thistle Class. The author contends that straps are not mysterious gadgets but practical safety equipment that can improve boat balance and racing performance while being affordable and easy to install.

A technical account of an innovative seacock mechanism installed on a Thistle racing boat. The article describes how one sailor implemented an automatic bailer using a simple cylinder system that could be lowered through the centerboard hole and operated via suction.

Technical column about rigging tension and maintenance for Thistle sailors, explaining the relationship between slack shrouds and pretension, and providing practical guidance on setting proper rigging tension.

A detailed illustrated guide to Thistle ground tackle requirements, featuring practical advice on anchors, chains, and line specifications. The article includes photos demonstrating proper anchor stowage and deployment methods for Thistle sailors competing at regattas and racing events.

Marty Seelig provides complete instructions for constructing a low-cost masthead fly using readily available materials. The design has been tested extensively in the 1983 season and survived numerous 360-degree laser rolls. The fly is inexpensive to make and functions effectively across various sailing conditions.

Technical guidance on screw types used in Douglas & McLeod Thistle construction, explaining the difference between Phillips-head and Reed & Prince screws and their proper applications.

A column featuring sailing accessories and improvements that sailors have found helpful. Describes a nifty tie-down bar utilizing old blocks to increase buoyage with the trailer, featuring Wade Hough's innovation featured in pictures.

Technical examination of sail control systems on wood-hulled Thistle boats, detailing various rigging methods used to manage control on the 45' brace and centerboard, with photographs of specific installations.

A notice of proposed changes to Thistle Class specifications submitted by Fleet 21 regarding roller reefing gear options.

King proposes a simple aluminum rudder cap design that solves swelling and fitting problems with wooden tiller caps, using a glassed-in tubular rudder cap that maintains the boat's appearance while eliminating maintenance issues.

Doug Laber describes how micro adjusters with dual hole spacing can provide fine control over shroud tension and rig adjustment, enabling more precise tuning than traditional methods. He includes photos and technical explanation of how the vernier effect works.

Technical article with photographs showing rigging improvements for wooden Thistles, including jib lead arrangements, spinnaker systems, and crew control solutions.

Technical continuation of the Thistle rigging article covering mainsail systems, vang systems, cunningham, centerboard control, and modifications for easier sailing.

Technical article about the Thistle's design and construction over 50 years, including modern rigging systems (Jib, Spinnaker) and components, with diagrams showing different halyard and sheet configurations.

Technical article by Doug Laber describing how to build an inexpensive, simple cradle for storing and maintaining a Thistle, featuring detailed materials list and construction diagrams.

Don Dexter provides detailed instructions for making padded, adjustable hiking straps for Thistle boats using foam materials, webbing, and basic sewing techniques. The article includes specific measurements, installation diagrams, and tips for different boat configurations.

Discussion from the Thistle ListServ about compass systems for detecting lifts and headers. Topics covered include tactical vs. traditional compasses, digital compass options, and concerns about technical aids in racing.

Gillum provides a comprehensive technical article on spinnaker twings for Thistles, explaining their history, benefits, and installation details. He describes his custom installation on boat 3487 and discusses performance considerations for various wind conditions.

Chip Balough describes his restoration and enhancement of an old Clark laminated wood boom for Thistle #2705, including reinforcement techniques, stiffening with fiberglass, and modern outhaul rigging to improve performance while maintaining traditional aesthetics.

An article exploring weight management on Thistle boats, discussing hardware upgrades, carbon blocks for weight reduction, and the benefits of non-water-absorbing line to reduce boat weight by up to 40 pounds in wet conditions.

Michael Gillum provides detailed technical guidance on constructing safe slings and eye-strap attachments for hoisting Thistles, based on observations at MWE and proven methods used by experienced sailors.

Introduction to a multi-part rigging series featuring detailed descriptions from experienced boat owners. Inspired by an article in Sailing World about cordage in the Laser and Lightning classes, this series will showcase rigging innovations from various Thistle skippers including Bruce King, Mike Ingham, Craig Koschalk, and others.

Detailed technical description of rigging on Bruce King's championship-winning Thistle 3931. Covers custom-made bow plate and shroud plates, adjustable jib leads, vang system, centerboard uphaul, hiking straps, traveler, and innovative spinnaker halyard system with ball-controlled pop-off mechanism.

A detailed photo essay describing the rigging configuration of Mike Ingham's winning Thistle #3969, including his jib cleat system, centerboard handling, stanchion setup, main sheet, vang, spinnaker systems, compass, and other customizations made for simplicity and functionality.

A detailed technical article examining Skip Dieball's rigging setup on his new Thistle #3995, covering the main sheet system, jib sheet configuration, vang system, and other performance-tuned control lines. Includes photos of the rigging details and biographical information about Skip Dieball.

A technical article detailing the design and installation of an improved jib barber hauler system for racing Thistles. Covers the history of barber haulers, design philosophy, hardware specifications, and the benefits observed in racing conditions.

Ron Schauble describes structural repairs for older Thistles, specifically addressing failures in thwart-to-tank attachment and mast stanchion fastening. He outlines the repair process using stainless bolts and backing plates.

A practical guide for organizing regatta boat parts and fittings, describing the evolution of storage solutions from basic expansion to a two-part system using Stanley boxes, key ring carabiners, and film canisters for efficient organization.

A practical tip article by Jason Rziha describing an ingenious jig (a piece of cherry wood with holes) used to hold washers and nylock nuts while installing rear grates on a Thistle boat. The simple tool made an otherwise frustrating installation task much easier.

A detailed how-to article on building Thistle grates, the structural components that support crew positions. Rziha covers design choices (skirt thickness and shape), materials, preparation, assembly steps, and installation. The article includes parts lists and photos showing the step-by-step construction process.

Don Dexter offers creative solutions for repurposing the grating holes left vacant after upgrading from dual compass mounts to a digital compass. On the port side, he describes mounting a dry bag beneath the port grating hole with an inspection port on top, useful for storing small items like phones and snacks that need to stay dry. On the starboard side, he documents using a white plastic square as a navigation station where crews can write compass headings with a grease pencil, with a grease pencil holder attached via whipping line for convenience.

Chris Klotz provides a comprehensive historical analysis of boom vang development in Thistle class boats from 1945 to modern times, documenting shifts in regulation, enforcement, and sailing practices as the class evolved from Sandy Douglass's original Spartan design.