SKETCHBOOK

Dealing with a riding turn

Techniques for dealing with winch overrides

A A “riding turn,” or override, is the term used for the tensioned bit of the line jamming a winch by wrapping itself over the other lines.

B This problem can be caused by a poor lead into the winch. To avoid a riding turn, the line should rise by 5 to 10 degrees, so it may need an extra fairlead block or the jammer may need to be angled up slightly, or a riser may need to be placed under the winch.

C An arrow helps novice crews wrap the line the right way around the winch—especially on the port side.

D When easing the line out, keep it tight against the drum with just the heel of your hand.

E When tacking, the lazy sheet can be whipped off quickly by pulling it straight up off the winch, but make sure the “tails” won’t get snagged in the winch. Some racing boats toss them down the companionway, but small stowage bags or cleats are neater.

F On big boats, where lines are diverted around manual winches to powered ones, make sure you understand their operation and what to do if the “off” button fails!

G If you can’t tug the jam free, luff up or drop the sail to get the tension off. You’ll then have to tie another line on with a stopper knot. A rolling hitch is fine, but don’t worry about the correct knot. Just wind enough turns on to give you some grip.

H To move lines under tension on old raceboats, Eric Tabarly used a stopper like this, made from the sleeve of a braided rope, that flattened and gripped nicely.

I The simplest “no-think” stopper is a loop of line wrapped several times around the tensioned line. Practise a few times before it’s needed!

J Take the load off with another line led to a winch, or use a tackle like this, called a “handy billy.” If the boat’s in real danger, cut the sheet quickly. Ideally do it up by the sail to save the most line, although take great care the end doesn’t fly back and hurt someone.

Dick Everitt has sailed thousands of miles in various parts of the world. He has been an illustrator, journalist and engineer for more than 40 years